According to today’s FIFA World Rankings the Republic of Ireland have gone up one place to 13th position. The new position is a direct reflection of our unbeaten record at the World Cup 2002 in Japan Korea. Regardless of what Roy Keane has to say about Mick McCarthy , it is almost 10 ten years since the Republic of Ireland have come near the top-ten.
John O’Shea
After receiving a somewhat mysterious call-up for country against Finland at U21 level, it looked inevitable that John O’Shea would break into the Senior Irish Squad. But the Waterford born defender will step out in full Glory tonight in Europe in Manchester United's Champions League qualifier. Manchester Unity’s GBP£29.5 mil British record signing Rio Ferdinand will not make tonight’s clash with Hungarian champions Zalaegerszeg, due to injury. So it’s up to the Irish man to stake his claim as a future first choice for not only club, but more importantly he main even earn his regular call up for the Republic of Ireland at senior level. He’ll wear shirt number 22 tonight, along with his fellow countryman Roy Keane, who will as ever wear the number 16. Republic of Ireland U21 Striker Paul Tierney will start on the bench tonight for the Red Devils.
Andy O’Brien
Magpie Andy O’Brien is currently nursing sore shins, although he will be on the substitute bench for Newcastle United’s clash with FC Zeljeznicar in their Champions league qualifier. Shay will start in goal for the "Toon" in tonight’s away leg, and the home leg is a fortnight’s time from today, 28 August.O'Brien will be fit for the Republic of Ireland's Forthcoming Friendly with Finland in Helsinki, a week on Wednesday.
Meanwhile the Bhoys will take on Swiss side “Basel” in tonight’s away leg of the Champions League qualifier. Martin O’Neill is sceptical but confident that his side will not throw any lead away.
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