Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill 'tells Roy Keane to help Darron Gibson'

Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill has reportedly told his assistant coach Roy Keane to help Darron Gibson revive his career.

The Everton midfielder, who has had an injury-plagued few years, recently admitted to a drunken hit and run, which left a cyclist injured.

Gibson has not played for his nation for 11 months, but O'Neill has included the 27-year-old in his provisional 40-man squad for next month's final two Euro 2016 qualifiers.

According to the Daily Mail, O'Neill has "left [Gibson] alone", but Keane has had words with his ex-Manchester United teammate.

When asked if he thinks that Gibson will be ready in time, O'Neill said: "I think it will be difficult, but you never know. I don't know exactly his state of fitness. Sometimes when you phone Darron you don't always necessarily get a reply. He says the same about me."

Ireland will face Germany and Poland in their qualifiers next month.