By Ade O'Connor
June 8 2002

Ireland left winger, Kevin Kilbane, expects to be fit for Eires crunch match against Saudi Arabia, despite an ankle problem. The Sunderland player was doubtful for Irelands third and final group match, however the player insists that he will be fit enough to start for the team. This news came after Kevin Kilbane had suffered a similar injury to one that he picked up in a friendly match against Sanfrecce Hiroshima. The midfielder then picked up the knock on his ankle in Irelands draw against Germany, and the regular was in danger of missing the next match.

Positive injury updates also came from the Ireland camp, as it became apparent that those who had missed training on Friday, had no problems in training on Saturday. It meant relief for the Ireland management, as the squad is already down to 22 after the unsanctimonius departure of ex-captain Roy Keane.

Amongst those who were now able to train without any problems were captain Steve Staunton, who became the first ever Ireland player to pick up 100 caps in the German game. Defensive worries eased on the arrival of the news as right back Steve Finnan and Stauntons central defensive partner, Gary Breen recovered from knocks. Jason McAteer once again trained, after missing the previous game through injury, along with midfield colleagues Matt Holland and Mark Kinsella. Goalkeeper Shay Given was also cleared to take part in Irelands training session.

Other injury news filtered in from the Arabian camp. Sami Al Jaber, who once had a trial spell with Wolves in the English First Division and his strike partner Obeid Al-Dossari are ruled out of the clash with Ireland. The news means the end of an international career for Sami Al Jaber, after announcing that he wishes to focus on club commitments in future. Meanwhile Obeid Al-Dossari will be missed for his goalscoring prowess, rattling a number of goals in for both club and country.