Gibraltar vs Republic of Ireland: Martin O'Neill and Roy Keane want to avoid slipping on potential Euro 2016 banana skin

After three draws on the bounce, Ireland must win to keep qualification hopes alive

Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane (Getty Images)

Republic of Ireland face Gibraltar on Friday night in what is a game “ripe for a giant killing” according to assistant manager Roy Keane. After three draws on the bounce, Martin O’Neill’s side will be looking for a big win to keep their hopes of Euro 2016 qualification alive.

It’s a big game for…

Jonathan Walters: The Stoke City forward was looking for a move away from his club side on transfer deadline day, but his move to Norwich City fell through. The Irishman will need to get some international form behind him if he is to challenge the likes of Xherdan Shaqiri and Ibrahim Afellay for a starting spot at Stoke.

Best stat…

18- Robbie Keane scored an 18 minute hat-trick when the two sides met back in October, when the hosts Northern Ireland defeated the minnows 7-0.

Remember when…

Gibraltar shipped seven goals against Northern Ireland in the side’s only meeting in international football.

Player to watch…

Robbie Keane: After scoring six goals for his club side LA Galaxy in August, the Irishman will be looking to heap more misery of Gibraltar following his hat trick against them back in October.

Past meeting…

Republic of Ireland 7 (Keane 3, McClean 2, Perez OG, Hoolahan) Gibraltar 0, European Qualifier, October 2014

Form guide…

Gibraltar: LLLLLL

Republic of Ireland: WLWDDD

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 7.45pm

TV: Live on Sky Sports.