Matt Holland and the rest of the Irish squad will fly out to Japan tomorrow after playing Nigeria in a friendly in Dublin tonight.

Holland says he is starting to get in the World Cup mood but still has Town's demotion in his thoughts: "Now we are together in Dublin I'm getting quite excited about the World Cup.

"But it is difficult to get the disappointment of the weekend out of my head.

"I'm trying to concentrate on what is happening here but the relegation is always in the back of my mind — it still hurts."

Ireland fly via Amsterdam and then Tokyo, before ending their journey in Saipan where they will be based.

Holland expects to play a half this evening as Mick McCarthy gives his squad another run-out. Town's Finidi George is not involved for the Nigerians.

On his return from the World Cup Holland will go on a family holiday before joining Town's annual trip to Scandinavia. As well as two games in Denmark and the July 16th game with Finnish club IFK Mariehamn, Town may also play Swedish opposition.

Once back in England they will have the usual high profile final home friendly of the pre-season on August 3rd, as well as a game against a local non-league side and the two Bristol fixtures previously reported.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls