<notforsyndication>Listen to the Republic of Ireland v Nigerian live on RTÉ Radio 1 LW 252, DAB and on RTÉ.ie from 7.30pm. </notforsyndication>
Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni could be forced to call up another goalkeeper after Dean Kiely withdrew from the squad ahead of tonight's game friendly against Nigeria.
Trapattoni has Shay Given returning from injury and wants to look at Keiren Westwood, with Kiely telling him he would return home to spend time with his family after learning he would not feature.
Trapattoni's preparations for the World Cup qualifier in Bulgaria next have subsequently been disrupted as he is now expected to call up another goalkeeper.
'I had to inform these new players that they can play,' Trapattoni said.
'All the team accepts this situation but there was some disappointment for Dean Kiely. He wanted to go with his family.
'If he stayed with us, it's better, but he wished to go. He said he was a bit disappointed, he thought he had an opportunity. We have other options.
'I'm a bit disappointed. I have to respect the older players. But my job is to look forward at other situations. In the future we will see what happens.'
Kiely, 38, previously retired from international football, in 2003, before returning when Trapattoni was appointed.
Trapattoni could now call-up Paddy Kenny, Colin Doyle or Joe Murphy as cover for the Sofia trip.
Ahead of that qualifier, which would take Ireland closer to the World Cup if they win, the Nigeria friendly gives Trapattoni a chance to look at some of his younger players. Kevin Foley, Eddie Nolan, Sean St Ledger, Liam Lawrence and Leon Best are set for their debuts.
Robbie Keane is likely to partner Best in attack, and the skipper said: 'I haven't see much of Leon play but the last couple of days have been impressive. He has a good touch and is a good finisher. He has the opportunity and it's up to him to take it.'
Keane is hoping that the winning mentality that has been forged by going unbeaten so far in qualifiers will continue against Nigeria and, ultimately, against Bulgaria.
'We're in good shape, confidence is high. Bulgaria is the bigger picture. As long as the players don't get any injuries, that's the main thing.'
