The presence of Roy Keane at Ireland's Malahide training base has generated excitement among the players.

The former captain and manager Martin O'Neill took the players for training for the first time today.

Left-back Stephen Ward admitted the experience of working with Roy Keane is surreal.

After training, he said: "It's a little bit surreal sometimes. You grow up watching him and obviously he's one of the greatest players to play for Ireland. As a kid I was a Man United fan so he had a big influence on my life as a child. It's a bit surreal but it's good to work with him."

Take a look at pictures from the session by clicking here.

©INPHO/Donall Farmer