By Paul Holmes
June 8 2002

Matthew Holland's preformance in the World Cup is rumoured to have attracted interest from Italian side, Torino. The 28 year old midfielder was thrown into the limelight after his superb equaliser against Cameroon in the Republic's opening game. Days before that Holland learnt that he would have to take the place of Roy Keane after the fiery midfielder's much covered departure.

Along with Charlton's Mark Kinsella, Holland gave a fantastic performance and was bound to attract interest. The performance was repeated against Germany days later in another dramatic 1-1 draw.

Holland recently pledged his future to Ipswich and boss George Burley stated he would not sell his star-man but if Holland can resist the temptation of Italy is another question.

Holland will get another chance to impress potential suitors of Irelan advance from their group as expected with only Saudi Arabia standing in their way.