IRELAND MANAGER GIOVANNI Trapattoni names his starting line-up for tomorrow’s friendly with Poland this afternoon (2pm).
After five uncapped players were included in the original squad, Ireland fans were robbed of the chance to see Anthony Pilkington don the green jersey in a senior international after the Norwich winger picked up an injury on club duty over the weekend.
In the final chance to experiment ahead of next month’s double header with Sweden and Austria, we would like to see Ireland line out as follows:
Goalkeeper – Kieren Westwood
Trap named Westwood as his No1 after Shay Given retired last year but isn’t happy that he couldn’t get a move away from Sunderland and has hinted that David Forde might get the nod. Okay, Westwood can’t get a game at club level but he should be given every available chance to gain experience at international level and grow into the job.
Nothing against Forde, who has always been ready when called upon, but at 33 Westwood is a better option long-term.
Right-back – Richard Keogh
The 26-year-old defender, a former Ireland U21 who can operate at centre-half or on the right, has been drafted in for the first time after the Ireland manager watched him in the Championship and says he’s determined to impress.
Centre-half – Ciaran Clark
Currently starting regularly for Aston Villa, Clark played against Greece in November and should be given the opportunity to stake a claim in future teams by earning his fourth senior cap tomorrow.
Centre-half – John O’Shea
With Richard Dunne still sidelined, O’Shea is our most experienced defender and would provide much-needed leadership in what is otherwise a youthful backline.
Left-back – Greg Cunningham
Marc Wilson is on the road to recovery but we don’t have a huge amount of options at left-back and 22-year-old Cunningham of Bristol City is a genuine option looking ahead to the next campaign.
Right wing – Robbie Brady
The winger, recently named Ireland U21 Player of the Year, has looked exciting in his previous appearances and is playing regularly for new club Hull.
Central midfield – Jeff Hendrick
Dubliner Hendrick endured a difficult start to the season with the Rams but has rediscovered his form in recent months and with David Meyler pulling out, can show his potential in the middle of the park.
Central midfield – James McCarthy
One of the few players Ireland possess who is featuring week in, week out in the Premier League, McCarthy’s time has come to cement a spot in Ireland’s first XI.
Attacking midfield – Wes Hoolahan
The Norwich schemer’s best position is in the hole behind the frontman and that is where he can excel for Ireland. Links the midfield with the attack effectively and can unlock defences with his creativity.
Left wing – James McClean
With Brady on the right and McClean on the left, Ireland should have real attacking threat from the flanks against Poland.
Striker – Shane Long
Long is used to leading the line as a lone striker for his club and has all the tools to make use of the service provided by the two wingers and Hoolahan in a supporting role.
From the bench: Conor Sammon, Jon Walters.
Who would you pick to start tomorrow night?
