Championship trio set for Irish U21 debuts
by JP Lonergan, 24 March 2008
Republic of Ireland U21 manager Don Givens has hinted that Crystal Palace midfielder Sean Scannell and Coventry City front man Leon Best will be handed their debuts in his side in Tuesday night’s European Championships Qualifier against Montenegro.
Ipswich Town goalkeeper Shane Supple – who is currently on loan at Falkirk - will definitely be given his first start in goal as Ireland look to climb the table, even if qualification looks out of the equation.
“We’re looking for a good performance,” said Givens. “Qualification looks to be beyond us at this stage, but this is a good chance to see some of the younger players. We also have two new lads in the squad – Leon Best and Sean Scannell – and I’d hope to see them feature at some stage.
“Shane Supple will start in goal. It will be Shane’s first U21 cap and it is a good opportunity for him.”
Meanwhile, Wolverhampton Wanderers’ on-loan Manchester United man Darron Gibson will undergo a late fitness test before Givens confirms his starting eleven, the midfielder having suffered a knock in training.
The boss added: “Darron is 50-50 at the moment and we’re going to wait for a fitness test before deciding whether he will play or not."
Celtic’s Darren O’Dea will captain Ireland in the game at Galway United’s Terryland Park.
