Team Announced

Kilbane has back problems - too much of a risk to play him. Not sure about Ward in first team, not sure if he is much of an improvement on Zinedine Kilbane. At least he is playign at a higher level though.

Andrews is my only concern on this team. Ward has been outstanding for Wolves. Looking for a huge game from McGeady and Long. Both in cracking form....

Londain,

Ward has been superb this season for Wolves. Zinedine has been a disaster over the last 5 years. I'm delighted Ward is in.

H&H,

I think Andrews was the best option. He scored last weekend for Ipswich and he's never given less than 100% every time he's played for us. He also scored a cracker against Italy in June.


Overall I'm happy with the team, it's what I would have picked. James McCarthy will join the senior squad after tonights U21 game so that's another positive.

My only problems are Andrews and St.Ledger. How can St Ledger who barely plays at club level ahead of Foley? Put Foley at right back and stick John and Richie in the centre with Ward out left and thats a decent defence there, all playing regurley at the highest level.

Surprised that Trap dropped Doyler for Shane Long. On form Long should get the call, still surprised that Trap picked Long because he's usually fairly conservative in his selection.

Long and Keane played together a lot last Summer, and the two in central midfield are also very familiar with each other, which is why I think Andrews got the call ahead of our other CM options.

No need to experiment in what is easily the most important game for ussince the Paris playoff.

If we keep an organised shape, I fancy us to grab a tight and tense 1-0, which would leave us with endless possibilities going into the Russia game

I think the selection of Long gives us a better chance - though like Doyle too - Long is in scoring form.