Keane backs Trap' in Reid decision

Former Republic of Ireland skipper Roy Keane cannot understand the fuss surrounding Andy Reid's exclusion from Giovanni Trapattoni's squad.

The 26-year-old, who is yet to play a single minute for his country under the Italian, was not included among a 23-man party for next week's friendly against Poland at Croke Park when it was announced yesterday.

Reid's lack of activity has sparked a national debate in Ireland, and one that has not impressed Trapattoni, who has insisted he has no problem with the Sunderland man, but will pick the players he feels are best suited to the way he wants to set up his team.

Keane, however, is astonished by the publicity the issue has attracted, and has told Reid to view his absence from the squad as a challenge.

The Sunderland boss said: 'What is the big deal? Someone texted me yesterday to say Andy Reid wasn't in the Irish squad - what's the big deal?

'The manager has not picked him - he has not picked lots of players.

'It's the manager's choice. Reidy has been left out for me lately - he could be left out tomorrow night [against Blackburn].

'What's the big deal? It's the manager's choice, and the manager has got more experience than we will ever dream of. If he thinks Reidy is not in his plans at this moment in time, then that's a challenge to Reidy. That's all it is, it's a challenge to him.

'I am sure it's grabbed headlines, but I am amazed by the publicity he seems to be getting. My God.'

The common perception in Ireland is Reid is one of the most naturally-gifted midfielders available to Trapattoni, and he has demonstrated his ability at Sunderland since his recovery from a serious knee injury.

However, with strikers Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle, as well as wingers Damien Duff and Aiden McGeady, providing the forward thrust in his team, Trapattoni is looking for something different from his central midfielders.

Glenn Whelan, who has been unable to command a regular place at promoted Stoke this season, has been a fixture in his team, while Manchester United youngster Darron Gibson got the nod for last month's 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Cyprus, with Steven Reid out for the season with a knee injury.

Gibson and Blackburn's Keith Andrews, who were both elevated to the senior squad after performing well in the 'B' fixture victory over Nottingham Forest on October 9, are among the eight midfielders selected for the Poland game.

While Trapattoni's view of Reid's role may have caused some controversy - rumours are rife of a clash between the two after the 2-1 victory over Georgia in Germany in September - he has the perfect answer to his critics.

Of the six games for which he has been in charge to date, the Republic have won three and drawn three and currently sit in second place in World Cup qualifying Group 8 with seven points from a possible nine, three behind world champions Italy, who have played a match more.