Giovanni Trapattoni leaves new boys on the bench ahead of Czech test

James McClean and Shane Duffy expected to play on Wednesday night

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Shane Duffy

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Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni will hand Derry duo James McClean and Shane Duffy their international debuts from the bench on Wednesday night.

Sunderland winger McClean and Everton defender Duffy have been named as substitutes for the Aviva Stadium friendly against the Czech Republic.

The game is the second last match before Trapattoni names squad for the European Championships in Poland this summer.

McClean and Duffy have their work cut-out to make that squad but should get some chance to impress the Italian on Wednesday.

Wigan midfielder James McCarthy is in the same boat despite a late injury crisis for the Irish boss.

Wolves striker Kevin Doyle and Birmingham’s Keith Fahey were the latest players to withdraw on Tuesday.
Like defender Stephen Kelly and goalkeeper Keiren Westwood they have now returned to their clubs in England.

As a result, West Brom’s Shane Long will now partner skipper Robbie Keane in attack.

Ireland v the Czech Republic: Given; O'Shea, St Ledger, O’Dea, Ward; Duff, Andrews, Whelan, McGeady; Long, Keane (Capt).

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