Lawrence to start against Italy

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Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has named Liam Lawrence in his side to play Italy in Saturday's crucial World Cup qualifier at Croke Park.

The game will be Lawrence's first competitive start for the Republic.

The Stoke City winger will man the right wing in the absence of the injured Damien Duff, while Aiden McGeady gets the nod on the oppostite flank ahead of Hull's Stephen Hunt.

Richard Dunne has shaken off concerns surrounding his fitness to take his place in the heart of the Irish defence.

Republic of Ireland team to play Italy in their Group 8 World Cup qualifier at Croke Park: Shay Given, John O'Shea, Richard Dunne, Sean St Ledger, Kevin Kilbane, Liam Lawrence, Glenn Whelan, Keith Andrews, Aiden McGeady, Kevin Doyle, Robbie Keane.

Click here for picture profiles of the Republic of Ireland starting XI for the World Cup Qualifier against Italy in Croke Park.

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