A Rod: An attractively painted length of fiberglass that keeps an angler from ever getting too close to a fish.

As a kid growing up in the back streets of Dublin I used to pretend I was playing in the World Cup with my mates out on the streets, and now I will be doing it for real.

Qualifying for the second stage would be a successful World Cup for us. I think we can do it.

I used to love watching him as a player, so it is a joy to play alongside him. I might take the mickey out of him, but deep down I have so much admiration for him.

I'm not saying it wouldn't have happened if I'd come to Anfield then (1997), but I always held out hope that I'd come back and this is a real dream come true for me.

It's always nice to start off with a good result.

A lot of players might be tired, but I feel nice and sharp.