Trapattoni names squad for crucial end of season games

May.18, 2009 in International squad, World Cup qualifying

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni today named his squad for the upcoming end of season double header which features a friendly with Nigeria in London and a World Cup qualifier in Sofia against Bulgaria.

There are some surprises in the squad with Liam Miller, Sean St Ledger and Eddie Nolan all included alongside the uncapped Leon Best. Best though is not the only uncapped player in the squad. Goalkeeper Keiren Westwood, the Preston pair of St Ledger and Nolan, defender Kevin Foley and Liam Lawrence are also uncapped.

Trapattoni confirmed that the squad of twenty-five will be trimmed down to twenty-two for the World Cup qualifier with Bulgaria but he rates Nigeria as good preparation for that game, “preparations for the game against Nigeria on May 29 will allow us to see some new players who have distinguished themselves during the course of the last season and also to welcome back players like Caleb Folan and Kevin Foley.”

He added, “Nigeria is a powerhouse of African football, with many strong and fast players who are playing for top clubs in England and Europe. They will provide a challenging test before the very important World Cup Qualfier in Bulgaria on June 6.”

Probably of greatest interest to Irish fans is the inclusion of Kevin Doyle with the Irish camp optimistic he will shake off an Achilles injury in time to play. However, his injured club-mate Noel Hunt does miss out.

Goalkeepers