Bobby Robson returned to the Republic of Ireland fold today, serving as "a source of comfort" for manager Steve Staunton.
Robson may still have his own health to consider following surgery a few months ago to remove a small brain tumour, but there is no doubt he sees himself as mentor to Staunton.
Ahead of Wednesday's Euro 2008 qualifying tie with San Marino at Lansdowne Road, the pressure has at least eased considerably on Staunton.
It reached fever pitch following the 5-2 defeat to Cyprus, but a 1-1 draw at home to the Czech Republic bought Staunton some time and victory against the Group D minnows, who have already conceded 20 goals in their opening two matches, is fully expected.
Robson is certainly glad to be back after speculation he might have to resign his post as International Football Consultant for health reasons.
"It was never like that because I always believed I would recover," insisted Robson, who has missed Ireland's last four games.
"Stan and I were constantly in touch, as was (chief executive) John Delaney who has been marvellous to me. The people at the FAI have shown patience and understanding.
"They did not want to lose me, and I didn't want to lose them either, but it was always going to take time after an operation like the one I had.
"Now I'm back in the swing of things and very happy to be here. I made up my mind that I should try to be here, and it's the first time I've flown since the operation.
"Obviously, we've had a difficult patch, one I was sorry not to be involved with because I couldn't help.
"But now I'm here and I can help, and hopefully be a source of comfort to Stan and help him. It's certainly great to see him again.
"I feel he's weathered the storm well. When the pressure was on, I told him to stay calm, keep his head down and that he could only affect the next match, and he did that.
"Fortunately he received support from within the FAI, which I knew would happen, and he received great support from the public.
"The next match was always an opportunity to resurrect the situation and he did that by getting a point against a great side."
Former England manager Robson was given the all-clear to resume his role with the Republic almost four weeks ago.
It has been a trying year for the 73-year-old, with two operations to remove cancerous growths, the latter of which resulted in minor complications which still affect the left side of his body.
But a spirited, determined Robson added: "I'm feeling well and happy to be back. It's good to be amongst everybody again.
"I've been out of hospital now for four weeks, I'm responding to physiotherapy, which I have every day, and I'm walking much better now because before I was slightly impaired.
"It's a case of making good progress and to keep going. It's full steam ahead. It takes time, and whether it's short or long haul, every day is a good day.
"In due course I hope to be back 100 per cent. I'm not that at the moment of course, but I'm well on the way. The doctors have told me to get on with my life and enjoy it, and to do whatever I want to do.
"As long as I can do it, and I'm not an embarrassment or it's too much for me, then I'll do it.
"I was obviously unable to meet my commitments for the game with Germany, and those against Cyprus and the Czech Republic, but I'm just about ready now.
"I very much wanted to be here, in particular as it's the last game this year before we start again in February, by which time I should be much better.
"Being here for the next few days is the best possible tonic for my recovery because I'm amongst football people."
Staunton's squad was today reduced to 21 with Newcastle full-back Stephen Carr out with an ankle injury and Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland sidelined with a virus. PA