Republic of Ireland assistant Roy Keane insists his players are looking forward to the challenge that comes with playing against Gareth Bale.

Ireland host Wales in a 2018 World Cup qualifier in Dublin on Friday night which gives the home side the opportunity to test themselves against one of the world's best players in Real Madrid star Bale.

Former Manchester United captain Keane said: "Do you know what?

"Our lads should look forward to the challenge of playing against the best.

"You want to play with the best and against the best, and we'll have a chance on Friday because Bale is up there with some of the top players in the world, there is no getting away from that. Brilliant player.

"I have always liked him. I even liked him when I was manager at Sunderland.

"He came up with Southampton and he was the best player on the park. I think he equalised in injury time and was excellent - and that was at left-back."

Keane added of the former Tottenham Hotspur ace: "Do you not think other players and coaches have tried to come up with a plan before?

"But the top players seem to figure it out and they'll affect the game.

"Bale has done that for a number of years for Madrid and on the big occasions.

"He's a good player and we look forward to the challenge of challenging ourselves against him."