Irish football news

Ian Harte the holder of 64 Republic of Ireland international caps is up in the North East training with Sunderland. Having been released by Spanish side Levante a short time ago it is not clear whether or not he'll win a contract at the Stadium of Light. Roy Keane has stated the Harte has shown his quality in training and a decision will be made by the start of next week.


Joey O'Brien made his first steps back since his serious knee injury 15 months ago. He appeared for 45 minutes in the right full back position for Boltons reserves on Wednsday night. The Dublin born 21 year old has seen Bolton drop into trouble with three defeats in the Premiership. His return would be a welcome boost for club and country.

In another pathetic attempt to sway Darren Gibson to change allegiences the IFA have asked FIFA to clear up the rules about where players are born. FIFA feel the situatuion has been cleared up as he won his first Republic of Ireland cap on Wed night. Gibson has said he always wanted to play for the team his family have always supported and . He was capped for Northern Ireland at U-16 level but it seems he won't be swayed to play for them again.