Euro 2004: Holland catches the bug

Last updated : 10 October 2003 By Dave Mervyn
Holland was confined to bed, while the rest of the team trained and it is feared that the Charlton midfielder may have caught the same bug that forced Kerr into a self-imposed quarantine earlier in the week. The Irish manager missed out on several training sessions as he sought to keep any possible infection away from the playing squad.

However Kerr, who is due to name Holland as his captain for the game, believes that Holland will be fit enough to feature against the Swiss. The Irish manager said: "Matty has a bit of a cold and a temperature so we left him in bed today, but I expect him to be OK. Matt's the type of player who doesn't miss many games for club or country when selected so I'm optimistic. "Kerr also refused to name his squad before checking on Holland's fitness and said: "I want to make sure Matt is OK before I confirm the team to the lads, but I'm sure they have a fair idea from the way we have trained. I might tell the players later this evening, but in any case I'll pull aside anyone who I think is anxious and put their mind at rest in advance."