Wolves' Stephen Ward ready to play his part in Republic of Ireland history

Wolves left-back Stephen Ward is getting ready to tread in the footsteps of childhood heroes in a challenge which could have a major bearing on this region's football.

A third of Giovanni Trapattoni's likely squad for the Euro 2012 finals would be provided by the Premier League trio of Wolves, West Brom and Villa.

And the psychological well-being of Ward, Shane Long, Richard Dunne & Co cannot help but be effected by what happens in the Republic of Ireland's two-legged play-off with Estonia.

Jack Charlton led Ireland to the World Cups of 1990 and 1994 and left an indelible imprint on the players who will now attempt to take the nation back to the major stages of international tournament football.

Ward said: "In 1990, I was only four or five, but I remember massive street parties on my road all the time. I was probably running around causing havoc but I definitely remember them.

"Hopefully we can get back to a major tournament because it has been too long. Everyone knows how big it is and everyone is aware of how much it meant to them as a fan – and how much more it would mean as a player."