Trapattoni wants Keane to be his ‘Totti’

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has asked skipper Robbie Keane to be his Francesco Totti as he begins his preparations for the Euro 2012 finals.

Keane will play a “number 10” role behind West Brom striker Shane Long in the absence of hamstring victim Kevin Doyle in tonight’s friendly against the Czech Republic at the Aviva Stadium.

Trapattoni intends to take a look at youngsters James McClean and Shane Duffy at the Aviva Stadium, although if he does so, it will be from the bench having named his strongest available starting line-up.

“First, we have to have respect for the players who have contributed to qualification,” said the 72-year-old Italian coach.