THE THREE HEIMIGOS

Legend Killer says Ferguson, Collins & Kelleher are key to Ireland's future

- BY MARK McCADDEN

HEIMIR HALLGRIMSSON has been urged to build his team around Caoimhin Kelleher, Nathan Collins and Evan Ferguson.

Kevin Kilbane believes that the trio can form the spine of a top side, given their Premier League experience, and Ferguson's recent arrival at Serie A giants Roma.

Kilbane, who said last week that Hallgrimsson's days are numbered, played 110 times for Ireland at senior international level and featured at the 2002 World Cup.

He reckons the long-term future can be bright with Kelleher, Collins and Ferguson leading the way.

"I think the three players we must build around are Caoimhin Kelleher, Nathan Collins and Evan Ferguson," he said. "That should be the spine of the Irish team - Premier League quality players at the right age in their careers.

"We've lacked leadership in recent games and it's great to see Seamus Coleman back in the squad to help with this aspect.