Republic feel Robbie’s loss so Keane-ly

FORMER Ireland midfielder Stephen Hunt fears their World Cup hopes may be dashed up front.

After all-time leading scorer Robbie Keane retired last year – following his record-breaking haul of 68 goals from 146 internationals – Shane Long assumed the mantle of Ireland’s No.1 striker.

But a metatarsal injury has ruled the Southampton hitman out of today’s friendly against Uruguay and next Sunday’s World Cup showdown at home to Austria.

And while Hunt has faith in Daryl Murphy to lead the line he is concerned for the nation’s future without Keane.

Former winger Hunt, who won 39 caps for his country between 2007 and 2012, said: “The last time I saw Ireland – against Wales – the game was crying out for Robbie.

“That was the first game since he retired when I thought he was sorely missed, especially in the last 20 minutes when Wayne Hennessey dropped a few balls.

“In the old days Robbie would have been the one sniffing around, ready to pounce on those sort of chances.

“We have different types of strikers now, complete strikers like Daryl and creative types like David McGoldrick but we need someone like Robbie too – a fox in the box.

“Towards the end of his career it must have been difficult for him to have to sit on the bench for such long periods. But we could do with someone like him now.

“Shane Long will be our main striker and Daryl will probably play up there next week and then the question is who goes there with him.”

Hunt has no doubts, though, about why Ireland have managed to put together two superb qualifying campaigns.

He said: “It’s down to Martin O’Neill. He has that schoolteacher look to a certain degree and the players respect him.

“The chats he has with players are vital because he makes them feel good about themselves and gives them confidence at the right time to have an impact. He sees and hears everything.” GARRY DOYLE