DUBLIN (Sporting Alert) — Striker Shane Long and midfielder James McCarthy are the only survivors of the Republic of Ireland’s starting line-up from midweek for today’s friendly international clash with Georgia in Dublin.
Republic of Ireland v Georgia Live Score Updates
Manager Giovanni Trapattoni, who watched side side played to a 1-1 draw with England at Wembley on Wednesday night, named West Brom striker Long as his captain, while Wigan midfielder McCarthy will feature in the starting team as well, as the boss made nine changes from the side which played the last game.
Republic of Ireland are using this contest as the final preparation for their upcoming World Cup 2014 qualifiers.
Norwich midfielder Wes Hoolahan gets his chance to impress the boss, who side-stepped recent comments from supporters that he needs to be credited with more playing time.
Returning to the starting team is defender Marc Wilson, who is back after a calf strain, while Sunderland’s Keiren Westwood replaces David Forde in goal for today’s clash.
Westwood started against England, but picked up a knock to his right knee during that game, while Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne will come off the bench.
Republic of Ireland: Westwood; McShane, Keogh, Delaney, Wilson; Keogh, McCarthy, Hoolahan, McClean; Cox, Long.
Subs: Randolph, Coleman, Whelan, McGeady, Keane, Kelly, Quinn, Meyler, Hendrick, Sammon, Dunne.
Georgia: Loria, Lobjanidze, Khizanishvili, Kvirkvelia, Khubutia, Kankava (C), Kashia, Daushvili, Ananidze, Kobakhidze, Gelashvili
Subs: Migineishvili, Tomashvili, Kverkvella, Kobakhidze, Dzaria, Gigauri, Devdariani, Targamadze, Gorgiashvili, Podkhadze
