Six Republic of Ireland players were in action as the top two in England’s Championship clashed as Birmingham City hosted Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Mick McCarthy – former Irish manager and captain – has seen his side sutrggle to retain their lead at the top in recent weeks due to inconsistent form. He sent out two Irish starters, Kevin Foley and former Bohemians man Stephen Ward. Andy Keogh would also join the action before half-time after a horror tackle by Lee Carsley.

The former Irish midfielder was shown a straight red card on 40 minutes for that tackle on Chris Iwelumo. Joining him in the home side was fellow former international Stephen Carr and probable future international Keith Fahey.

Birmingham kept their hopes of finishing top of the division alive with a 2-0 win – despite the numerical disadvantage. Carr was heavily involved in creating the first goal for Cameron Jerome.