Lee Carsley is pleased that a key player for the Czechs in out

Czech Republic v Republic of Ireland
Prague
Wednesday, 12 September
Kick-off: 1930 BST
Coverage on BBC Radio 5live & the BBC Sport website.

Republic of Ireland midfielder Lee Carsley is happy to avoid the threat of Czech Republic striker Jan Koller in Wednesday's Euro 2008 qualifier.

The towering Monaco forward, who has scored 49 goals in 79 games, is banned for the Prague clash.

"It's a big blow for them. He's their talisman and he's a fantastic player," said the Everton star.

"It's not just his aerial ability but he brings a lot more to their team and he will be a big loss for them."

Carsley is not the only one who believes Koller's absence will be a big blow for the Czechs.

Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky said: "We will miss Koller a lot. It is going to be an unpleasant situation for us."

The Czechs will go into the game leading the Republic by three points in Group D.

But given the Republic's more favourable run-in, coach Karel Bruckner may not feel it is wise to settle for a draw.

Carsley added: "It's important that we get a result on Wednesday and above all it is important that we don't lose.

"They have got a lot of players playing at top clubs and they are a tough team."