Mick keen to hit back

Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy moved quickly after today's training session to refute Roy Keane's allegations the facilities are dangerous.

He said: "We are not here for the training pitch. We are here to get accustomed to the heat and humidity we will experience in Japan and also to give the lads a bit of a break before the World Cup.

"I did not pick Saipan for its training pitch. They don't play football here and they've gone out of their way to do their best for us. Okay, it is not as it should be, but that does not matter for me and for most of the players.

"We're here to acclimatise, to get some sun and to get ready for the serious work which begins when we move to Izumo City in Japan tomorrow.

"I cannot understand what this fuss is about. This is not a training camp, this is a break for some R'n'R with a little bit of training thrown in for good measure. All I wanted to do here this week was get a sweat up and we've done just that."

Leeds defender Gary Kelly added: "Roy is a great captain and he does voice his opinion.

"He is a very important player for us, but so is everyone else. This Ireland squad is not about one player."