Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton has revealed that he contacts Bobby Robson every day as he attempts to find his feet in the world of international management.
Staunton has found Robson's experience invaluable as he prepares for his first fixture as Ireland boss.
He said: " We speak pretty much every day on the phone, and we've had a few meetings. Things seem to be going really well. Bobby knows my role, I know his and he knows his. He's done everything in the game, and that's why I'm picking his brains about virtually everything that's going on."
Staunton, though, concedes to facing problems ahead of his maiden squad selection next Thursday for the March 1 friendly with Sweden at Lansdowne Road.
He stated: "There are a few lads out injured, but it's that time of year where players are in competitive games going for championships and things. It's an awkward time, but I'm really looking forward to the game."
With Robson at his side in yesterday's fixtures meeting in Frankfurt to determine the dates for the 2008 European Championship qualifying campaign, the two men departed more than satisfied.
The Republic's international football consultant Robson had declared prior to the event that if they came away with four tenths of what they were looking for then they should take it .
Instead, they emerged with 80% of their Group D agenda intact, and with a mouth-watering start on September 2 in Germany.
