I'll stick my head on the block and say that Kilbane's days are numbered. He won't get a starting place on the Wigan team if he is still there next season.
Other players have now come on to the Irish team and shown evidence of competence. Stan will be the first manager since WW2 to drop KK from the first 11.
This last season has seen a gradual fading of the great stalwart's playing strengths. He comes in later than ever to the tackle, even wilder that ever with the speculative shot from the edge of the box. He was so innefective against Bolivia, a nothing game but he was the experienced head and alone had that responsibility.
The only thing left of International standard is physical height/target, some heading capacity and mental attitude.
06/06/2007, 3:29 AM
danonion
this campaign and last the numbers dont lie and they are in Kilbanes favour. Having said that, although I, others, and the statistics suggest that Kilbane is doing a job, he will probably be not playing first team football next season, will play poorly for Ireland and retire from the national team. He is not winning caps for his ego or to further his career, the man loves the team.
