Cunningham targets Denmark match - January 12, 2000
Kenny Cunningham, who has not kicked a ball in anger since a groin operation during the summer, is targeting Ireland's February friendly against Denmark for his international comeback.
The Wimbledon defender has been back in full training and hopes to step up to train with the first-team squad next week.
"I need to know how far I'm off the pace by going in with the lads, hopefully next week," he said. "If I get a week's training under my belt, I'd be pushing for a reserve game and go from there.
"I've never looked too far ahead because that could only lead to disappointment. The Denmark game might be too early for me, though it is in late February. Let's see how I get on training with the first team first."
In Kenny's absence, Richie Dunne has emerged as a genuine contender for one of the centre-back slots, while Gary Breen's form in the World Cup matches against Holland, Portugal and Estonia has been outstanding. And in the last few weeks, Cunningham has to watch while Tottenham's striker-turned-defender Gary Doherty has also rocketed to stardom.
The Danes' trip to Dublin is the 31-cap Don's only chance to win back his place before the World Cup campaign resumes against Cyprus and Andorra on March 24 and 28.