Berger Could Have Extended Stay

Martin O'Neill has spoken about the impact that former Czech Republic international midfielder Patrik Berger could make on the final run in to the end of the season. This comes following his appearance in the Watford game when he came on with roughly 20 minutes to go and changed the face of the game.

O'Neill said: 'Patrik has come back here from Stoke (where he went on loan following a fall out with the boss), got his head down, had that little cameo role against Watford when he came on, and I can see him being involved. His attitude since he came back here has been really good. In the reserves the other night, he was one of only a couple of experienced players and his attitude was commendable. He can make an impact.'

On the possibility of extending his contract which runs out in the summer he added: 'We will see. I should imagine we will see what develops. But from a situation where he was on loan, would not play for the reserves, and all those things, his situation has changed dramatically and I'm pleased. If he can help the team, I'll be delighted.'

He certainly was as sharp as a knife when he came on against Watford, trouble is how long can he stay fit? Berger showed us what we were missing quality wise, that is for sure, as I said a few weeks ago, if only we could find a 22-year-old version we'd be laughing.

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