Keane optimism surely misplaced

Republic of Ireland skipper Robbie Keane has talked up his country’s chances of earning a result against Spain on Thursday, but he is likely to be left disappointed.

Giovanni Trapattoni’s men were well beaten by Croatia in their opening Euro 2012 Group C clash, but now face an even greater challenge when they meet World and European champions Spain in Gdansk.

Keane has come in for criticism from some Irish fans from within the Betfair community, who have called for the Republic’s all-time record scorer to be dropped in favour of Stoke City forward Jonathan Walters after his lively display when coming on as a sub on Sunday.

However, former Inter Milan, Spurs and Liverpool striker Keane is confident he will retain his place in the starting XI and insists Ireland are approaching Thursday’s crucial game with the intention of getting a shock win out of it.

“There have been a few upsets in a few games already, so there’s no reason why we can’t go into the game believing we can get a result,” he said.

There is plenty of apparent optimism then in the Ireland camp and you would expect nothing less than a positive spin being put on the situation despite the fact they are sure to be up against it against Spain.

Unlike plenty of other countries in the competition, Ireland have a squad lacking quality in depth. Several first-choice players are merely squad men for their Premier League or Championship clubs so ‘Trap’ doesn’t have too many options when considering making changes for the Spain showdown.

Indeed, the Ireland coach is expected to go with the same side against Spain that was very much second best versus Croatia – although there is a clamour for Sunderland starlet James McClean to be drafted in.

Sadly for Ireland, for all their optimism, even he, if he does get a chance, will not be able to make a difference against Spain and an early plane ride home – therefore looms.

But, though the Irish appear doomed to an early exit, several exciting England Euro 2012 odds selections remain available, as Roy Hodgson’s men continue to exceed expectations.