Derrick Williams to make Ireland debut after being named in starting line-up to face France

Derrick Williams will make his senior Irish debut after being named in the starting line-up to face France in Paris tonight.

The Blackburn Rovers defender – who helped his side to promotion from League One earlier this month – will cap off a great personal year with his international debut.

Germany-born Williams, who grew up in Tramore, is also eligible to play for the United States – Ireland's opponents on Saturday – but the has represented Ireland all through the age grades.

Also selected are the inexperienced midfield pairing of Alan Browne and Declan Rice, while Callum O'Dowda also gets a rare start on the wing.

Shamrock Rovers striker Graham Burke and Bohemians goalkeeper Shane Supple could debut off the bench, while Enda Stevens and Shaun Williams are also in line for first appearances.

Republic of Ireland starting line-up:

Colin Doyle; Seamus Coleman, Kevin Long, Shane Duffy, Derrick Williams; Declan Rice, Alan Browne, Callum O'Dowda, James McClean, Jonathan Walters; Shane Long.

Bench:

Conor O'Malley (gk), Shane Supple (gk), Enda Stevens, Matt Doherty, Greg Cunningham, John Egan, Darragh Lenihan, Daryl Horgan, David Meyler, Alan Judge, Harry Arter, Shaun Williams, Graham Burke.