Callum Robinson and Aiden O'Brien start for Ireland as Martin O’Neill named a largely unchanged side for tonight’s Nations League clash with Wales at the Aviva Stadium.
The Preston North End front man comes in for Callum O’Dowda, who was ruled out through injury, while Millwall striker O'Brien, who scored in the 1-1 draw with Poland last month, comes in for Shane Long.
Robinson impressed in his substitute’s role against Denmark and O’Neill has elevated the high-energy player into the starting XI.
BREAKING: Two changes for Ireland as Callum Robinson and Aiden O'Brien replace Shane Long and Callum O'Dowda! #COYBIG #IRLWAL pic.twitter.com/KcCYic9w2d
— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) October 16, 2018
O’Neill’s side are looking to build on the scoreless draw from Saturday and also make amends for the 4-1 defeat in Cardiff last month.
The manager has, as promised, named an attacking side for the visit of Wales, again starting with a three-man defence.
Matt Doherty keeps his place in the starting XI and will start at right wing-back, while Richard Keogh will again captain the side, starting on the right of the three-man defence.
Shane Duffy will anchor the trio with Kevin Long on the left.
Harry Arter will again sit in midfield with Cyrus Christie and Jeff Hendrick making up the trio, allowing Robinson to link up play with O’Brien, who will lead the line.
Darren Randolph starts in goal for O’Neill’s side.
A depleted Wales side had to plan without the influential Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey.
Young Man City prospect Matt Smith starts in midfield. The 18-year-old is out on loan at FC Twente in Holland.
Ireland: Darren Randolph, Matt Doherty, Shane Duffy, Richard Keogh, Kevin Long, James McClean; Harry Arter, Cyrus Christie, Jeff Hendrick; Callum Robinson, Aiden O’Brien.
Wales: Wayne Hennessey; Connor Roberts, James Chester, Ashley Williams, Ben Davies; Joe Allen, Matt Smith, Harry Wilson; David Brooks, Tom Lawrence, Tyler Roberts.
