By Chris O'Brien
September 5 2004

United skipper Roy Keane could be making an early return from his rib injury to play the holding role in the Republic of Ireland midfield on Wednesday. Brian Kerr's side face Switzerland in Basle in the World Cup qualifiers.

The Republic of Ireland could be set to welcome back influential midfielder Roy Keane for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Switzerland. The United skipper has looked set to miss the game, but he could return early to play in the crucial clash in Basle.

Keane had targeted United's home derby against Liverpool on September 20th as his return, but Ireland boss Brian Kerr has revealed that he is making great progress with a rib injury and is nearly ready to be thrown back into match action.

"When Roy withdrew from the squad almost immediately on its announcement, we had discussions with him and Manchester United about the possibility he could return from his rib injury in time for the second match of our programme,'' said Kerr.

"It was agreed to keep the matter under review but make no public comment. Earlier this week, Roy began light training with his club and will now report to the Irish squad in preparation for the match in Basle."

Keane will take a late fitness test on Wednesday and if he is deemed fit is likely to go straight into the starting line-up to play his first competitive international game since his controversial argument with former boss Mick McCarthy during the build-up to the 2002 World Cup. If he plays he is likely to replace Cardiff City's captain Graham Kavanagh in midfield.