Money can't buy this thrill, says Dunne

Republic of Ireland 4 Estonia 0

Tuesday 15 November 2011 01:00 GMT
Comments
Dunne knows his team are on the verge of their first tournament in 10 years
Dunne knows his team are on the verge of their first tournament in 10 years (GETTY IMAGES)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Richard Dunne is savouring the prospect of Ireland qualifying for Euro 2012 in Dublin tonight. With a 4-0 lead already earned in Estonia, it would not be too complacent for the Irish to picture themselves in their first major tournament for 10 years.

The thrill is such that Dunne (above) is not interested in reports of generous bonuses for the players. "We all make enough money at our clubs and playing for Ireland is an honour, it's not about money," he said. "The whole country will benefit from it, and the main thing is having the pride. Going out and playing in the finals is all that matters to the players.

"Footballers want to play in tournaments and this is a really big tournament. To go and represent Ireland in it is going to be something that money can't buy."

Stephen Kelly is out with a groin injury but Sunderland's John O'Shea has recovered from a hamstring problem so can replace him at right-back. Damien Duff should be available despite a rib injury he took in a collision with Glenn Whelan in Tallinn. Kevin Doyle may start up front. Estonia defenders Raio Piiroja and Andrei Stepanov are suspended having been sent off on Friday night.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in