Kelly & O’Dea called upon by Trapattoni

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Giovanni Trapattoni has made two changes from the side that drew 0-0 with Slovakia on Friday. Fulham’s Stephen Kelly comes in at right back for the injured John O’Shea, while Leeds United’s Darren O’Dea replaces the suspended Sean St. Ledger.

Despite concerns over experienced trio Robbie Keane, Richard Dunne and Kevin Doyle, they have all been deemed fit to take their place in Trapattoni’s starting eleven for the crucial Euro 2012 Group B qualifier against table-toppers Russia in Moscow.

The boys in green go into the game two points behind leaders Russia with the incentive of three points and top spot in Group B up for grabs. A win here would be a massive step towards qualification.

Kick off in the Russian capital is 16.00 (Irish time).

Republic of Ireland team to play Russia: Shay Given; Stephen Kelly, Richard Dunne, Darren O’Dea, Stephen Ward; Damien Duff, Glenn Whelan, Keith Andrews, Aiden McGeady; Robbie Keane, Kevin Doyle.