Monday, 14 November 2011

Republic Make 3 Changes at AVIVA


Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has made three changes to the team for the Euro 2012 play-off second leg against Estonia in Dublin.

John O'Shea replaces injured full-back Stephen Kelly while Stephen Hunt comes in for Aiden McGeady in midfield.

Kevin Doyle was suspended for the 4-0 win in Friday's first leg in Tallinn but the Wolves striker returns at the expense of Jon Walters.

Damien Duff is in the team after recovering from a rib injury.

The Fulham winger sustained the injury in a collision with team-mate Glenn Whelan in Tallinn.

Kelly withdrew from the squad on Sunday with a groin injury and as expected his place is taken by O'Shea, who is fit again after a hamstring problem.

Meanwhile, Republic defender Richard Dunne could hardly be less interested in the cash windfall qualification for Euro 2012 would bring himself and his team-mates.

Giovanni Trapattoni's players will reportedly share a bonus of 4million euros - around £3.4m - if, as expected, they complete a play-off victory over Estonia.

Dunne insists his bank balance will be the furthest thing from his mind when the final whistle sounds.

"We all make enough money at our clubs and playing for Ireland is an honour, it's not about money," said the 32-year-old Aston Villa player.

"The whole country will benefit from it and the main thing is having the pride. Going out and playing in the finals is all that matters to the players.

"There's nobody in the world who can give you £3m or £4m, and you finish third in your group. It's of no benefit to anyone.

"Footballers want to play in tournaments and this is a really big tournament.

"To go and represent Ireland in it is going to be something that money can't buy."

Republic of Ireland team: Given, St Ledger, Ward, O'Shea, Dunne, Whelan, Duff, Andrews, Doyle, Keane, Hunt