Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish has touted Keith Fahey for a future Republic of Ireland call.

As Ireland regroup and possibly rebuild, McLeish believes Fahey, who to date has been overlooked by Trapattoni, can help Ireland look to the future and take them up a notch.

"If they're looking for fresh blood Fahey is a guy who can help the Irish," said the Blues boss.

"He's got a terrific trait of being able to keep the ball which is vital in international football and he's got the legs and the energy and the change of gear.

"I know Liam (Brady, the Republic of Ireland assistant manager) had him as a kid in Ireland and maybe has a different opinion of him from then but I really believe he could be part of that squad looking for the future."