They must win in Nicosia and beat Switzerland in Dublin to have any hope. “A big blow,” was the verdict of Ireland’s manager, Brian Kerr, who also knows that his neck is edging towards the chopping block. The chances of the Republic of Ireland reaching next year’s World Cup took a serious blow last night with Thierry Henry inflicting a defeat which dramatically elevated France’s own hopes of progressing. 5 SUBSTITUTES JOE COLE On for Wright-Phillips after 53 minutes to provide central link to Owen No end product 5 OWEN HARGREAVES Tried with be creative to little effect Nick Harris. 5 MICHAEL OWEN Found small pockets of space in packed opposition area But had shots blocked. 6 WAYNE ROONEY Lost his temper as frustration at lack of progress marred sporadic positives Calmed later.

5 SHAUN WRIGHT-PHILLIPS Home side did well to limit clear openings. 5 RIO FERDINAND Lack of early opposition pressure gave him time and space to be calm, but complacency set in later 4 ASHLEY COLE Plenty of early involvement but faded later. 4 DAVID BECKHAM Sprayed multiple incisive passes in first half Less in second, intensifying positional debate further. 5 FRANK LAMPARD Recovered from early knock to play a distribution role But three midfielders trying to do so did not help.

5 STEVEN GERRARD Gave as good as he got but also suffered from duplication of central duties. 6/10 LUKE YOUNG Won the early aerial battles when England were dominant but struggled later. 5 JAMIE CARRAGHER Untroubled early, so spent more time upfield than at the back, where he did a routine job, nervy later. 7 DAVID HEALY Tough early challenges set the tone for a display of necessary muscle capped by a superb goal. 8 JAMES QUINN Tough early approach and tackles galore gave way to more upfield adventure as game wore on 7 SUBSTITUTES Feeney: Late sub who had two close chances Sproule: Came on for final couple of minutes Duff: Came on in added time ENGLAND PAUL ROBINSON Authoritative for most part Could do nothing to stop Healy goal.