September 13 2007

Clinton Morrison

Crystal Palace midfielder MARK KENNEDY believes Clinton Morrison deserves a Republic of Ireland call-up.

The Republic's hopes of qualifying for Euro 2008 were dashed after a 1-0 loss in the Czech Republic last night.

Morrison has been snubbed by Ireland coach and former Palace loanee Steve Staunton since he took charge of the national side last year.

The striker's last match in the green shirt was a World Cup qualifier against Switzerland almost two years ago.

KENNEDY has given up hope of a recall to the Ireland fold but insists his country needs 34-cap Morrison who has two goals for Palace this season.

"If I was Clinton I would be feeling very hard done at not being in the international set-up," said KENNEDY.

"It's different for me, I'm 31, I've not played for the international team since 2002 for a number of reasons, but Clinton will score goals at any level he plays at.

"I've not had contact with Steve Staunton. I've got absolutely no interest in it whatsoever, my only interest is Crystal Palace."