IT'S NOTHING personal, but Jack Bishop will be pleased to see Ireland knocked out of the World Cup.

Because at least Colin Kenna can concentrate on his training for his next fight on July 12.

In common with the rest of his countrymen, the Dublin-born Southampton-based heavyweight prospect tends to hit the Guinness when Ireland win.

Although Kenna hasn't forsaken running on the black-top for downing the black stuff, Bishop knows that when Ireland win, Kenna comes in with a head more sore and aching than any of his six opponents have given him.

Kenna will top the bill at his next outing, a dinner show at South-ampton Guildhall on July 12, and Bishop is still seeking an opponent for the heavyweight who has won all six pro bouts to date.

But according to Bishop, while Mick McCarthy and his boys are winning, Kenna is only too happy to join in with the Craic.

"He's like any other Irishman, he never forgets his roots, and you wouldn't want him to do that.

"Like all his countrymen, he knows how to celebrate when there's something to cheer about.

"But he's also a very committed boxer - even if he does sink pints of Guinness, he makes up for it.

"He came into the gym after Ireland had beaten Saudi Arabia, and he had obviously had a couple during and after the game.

"But he put his hand on my shoulder and said: 'Jack, I think we've got to work a bit harder tonight' and he really put in a good training session.

"That's the sort of dedication I like. I'm more than happy to let him have a beer or two - he's got the commitment to make up for it.

"He's a very committed fighter and that's what will take him a long way in this game. Having said that, I'll be glad when Ireland are out, no offence, of course."