Roy Keane's dramatic 2002 World Cup exit

It is 10 years since the Republic of Ireland's World Cup preparations were rocked by the bombshell of skipper Roy Keane's infamous bust-up with team manager Mick McCarthy.

Keane flew home before the tournament kicked off in Japan, and the Republic went on to qualify for the last 16 where they lost to Spain on penalties.

Now, Ireland are looking forward to competing in a major finals for the first time since that headline-grabbing controversy.

The Republic will play Croatia in Euro 2012 on 10 June and then face Spain and Italy in their other Group C fixtures.