Niall Quinn yesterday led the praise for Sunderland teammate Kevin Kilbane, who starred as the Republic of Ireland took another stride towards the World Cup finals with a 2-0 victory over Estonia.

The Estonian defence couldn't cope with the strong and incisive running of Kilbane, who was employed in his customary left-wing role after being used down the right by Sunderland this season.

Quinn said: "Kevin was unreal in the second half. He's getting better and better - it's frightening what he can do these days."

Irish boss Mick McCarthy agreed: "He's exciting, isn't he? Estonia had to put somebody else over there to help their full back deal with Kevin."

The only disappointment for Kilbane was his failure to hit the target. "I should have scored at least one," he admitted. "But I can't remember having so many runs in an Irish game. I seemed to run for ever in the second half."

Quinn's impressive performance was also a major plus for the Irish, although he failed to claim the elusive goal which would have taken him beyond Frank Stapleton's total of 20 and made him the country's leading scorer in internationals.

The Sunderland star said: "I did well in everything else, but I just didn't score. I think that record is now like a weight around my neck I wish Frank had scored about 50, then everybody would leave me alone.

"I know I should have scored more than once, but it's not something I'm worried about. If we had come off with a 0-0 draw I would have been upset, but I felt I still played a part in the win.''

Quinn admitted he was 'a bit bemused' over McCarthy's decision to substitute him midway through last Saturday's game in Portugal.

But McCarthy has assured the striker that he remains an integral part of his plans.

"I need Quinny playing for us - he's been fantastic," said the Irish coach. "He's 34 and I know he's only scored ten in last five years, but he's still such an asset to us, such a threat in the way he holds up the ball. Niall has struck up a great understanding with Robbie Keane and is a vital part of the team."

Sunderland manager Peter Reid was represented at the game, sparking speculation that he is interested in Everton's Richard Dunne. The central defender, who crowned a commanding performance with one of the Republic's goals, looks certain to leave Goodison Park for £3m.

l David Beckham has been fined almost £4,000 by UEFA after showing ''clear dissent'' towards referee Markus Merk during Manchester United's defeat at PSV Eindhoven last month.

The midfielder was booked for dissent by Merk and Beckham showed his anger by turning and spitting on the ground in the general direction of the German official.

Beckham was told yesterday he does not need surgery on his damaged left knee. It had been thought the midfielder may require an operation after limping off during England's defeat against Germany.