By:
Mark Hendry
Robbie Brady has handed Republic of Ireland a fitness boost before they face Czechia in the World Cup playoff.
The versatile full-back has missed a number of Irish fixtures with a long-term calf issue.
Brady, 33, did not feature for Ireland at all in their qualifiers after he suffered injury in a pre-season clash.
It is a problem that has kept him out since then but he is finally back on the grass with Preston North End.
That can only be a positive for the playmaker who will hope to break back into the Irish squad.
Fans face a ticket scramble to make the game in Prague.
But Brady will be praying he’ll be on the flight and not in the stands.
Preston boss Paul Heckingbottom provided an injury update on Brady who underwent surgery back in September.
Robbie Brady fitness update
And he revealed his player is getting “bored” of running and wants to be back involved.
“(Brady is) progressing well,” Hecky said.
“He’s probably getting held back for his own good by the medical team, because he’s feeling great.
“I know he’s frustrated, he wants to be out there.
“But at least he’s running now, he’s making good strides.
“I always remember that feeling when you’re coming back from injuries.
“You get on the grass it’s good and all of a sudden you’re bored of running; you want a ball.”
Brady may have missed his nation qualifying for the playoff semi, but experience could be vital.
The former Burnley, Hull and Norwich City star was a big part of ex-boss Stephen Kenny’s setup.
And he continued that form under Heimir Hallgrimsson who also trusted the versatile veteran.
Why Republic of Ireland will need Brady’s experience vs Czechia
But Brady will know how hard he will have to work to get back into the Ireland squad.
Not just because of the heroics from the last squad against Portugal and Hungary that didn’t involve him.
But because of a lack of playing time and how that might effect his form and even perhaps his bravery on and off the ball.
For Brady it will bring an opportunity to impress and show why he’s still capable of being involved.
And that is a long way forward from being out of sight, out of mind for both club and country.
If Hallgrimsson’s side can make it past Czechia in the semi-final, they will face either Denmark or North Macedonia in the final.
And the Irish will make big money.
Both ties are tasty ones.
And could bring with them a spot at USA, Mexico and Canada at the tournament proper.
His knowledge of playing at the highest level in Premier League and international level should help.
Brady has 72 caps on the biggest stage with 10 goals to his name.
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