No reprieve for Keane as McCarthy names squad

The Republic of Ireland coach, Mick McCarthy, has named a 25-man squad for the international friendly against Finland in Helsinki on 21 August, but, as expected, there is no room for his former captain Roy Keane. McCarthy and Keane had their infamous row just before the World Cup, and the player was sent home.

With an eye on the forthcoming European Championship tie with Russia on 7 September, McCarthy has selected six players who did not figure in the finals – the Hibernian goalkeeper Nicky Colgan, the Tottenham defender Stephen Carr, the Celtic midfielder Colin Healy, the Southampton utility man Rory Delap, the Leeds midfielder Stephen McPhail and the Spurs defender Gary Doherty.

The Bolton Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce is being offered the veteran German striker Fredi Bobic on a cut-price salary – because Borussia Dortmund want him off their payroll.

Bobic's chances of a return to the Reebok have increased dramatically because Dortmund are willing to pick up most of the tab for his £30,000-a-week wages and leave Wanderers with around £8,000 a week to give Bobic.

Borussia have written Bobic out of their plans but he is still under contract to them and only Bolton have shown a realistic interest. Bobic could arrive in time for the Premiership opener with Fulham and leave them well within their budget.

Allardyce may take the chance as he is facing a striking crisis. The England international Michael Ricketts may be out for a month if a nagging knee problem continues. The Dane Henrik Pedersen is his only senior option, with the youngster Jonathan Walters the main alternative.

Leeds United have agreed a three-year deal with the Australia international midfielder Paul Okon.

Okon agreed to make the switch to Elland Road yesterday after undergoing tests and will officially be unveiled as a Leeds player on Monday, providing he passes his medical.

The 30-year-old will become Terry Venables' second signing as Leeds manager, following Nick Barmby. Okon, formerly of Lazio, played under Venables when the latter was in charge of Australia's national team and at Middlesbrough.

Two more Brazil World Cup winners could follow Gilberto Silva and Juninho by moving to England. The midfielders Kleberson, who plays for Athletico Paranaense in Brazil, and Ricardinho, of Corinthians, have both been linked with Leeds in the South American press.

West Ham's preparations for the new season have been boosted by Ian Pearce, Steve Lomas, and Trevor Sinclair all agreeing new deals.

Birmingham City are to appeal after they had their application for a work permit for the United States international striker Jovan Kirovski, a proposed signing from Crystal Palace, rejected by the Home Office yesterday.