I wanted world class opposition to show me what we are capable of..

HEIMIR HALLGRÍMSSON has batted away criticism from Brian Kerr of Ireland's summer friendly opposition.

- BY MARK MCCADDEN

The Boys in Green impressed in Friday night's 1-1 draw with African giants Senegal, and on Tuesday they are away to Luxembourg.

Former Ireland boss Kerr (inset) was speaking back in March when he questioned the wisdom of playing both countries - particularly Senegal - ahead of the World Cup qualifiers later this year.

"I don't know what the point is of playing Senegal, given that we are going to be playing either Denmark or Portugal," he said, ahead of Portugal's win over Denmark, which put them into Ireland's group.

"Our next matches are against Hungary, Denmark or Portugal and Armenia, so I don't really get that one."

It should be pointed out that during Kerr's time as manager, Ireland played Australia, Canada, Brazil, Nigeria, Jamaica and China in friendlies ahead of European and World Cup qualification games.

Hallgrímsson wasn't aware of this, but was quick to respond with an explanation for the choice of Senegal as summer friendly opponents.

"I'll answer this one and it's a really easy answer," he said.