Trapattoni announces squad for Oz test

Giovanni Trapattoni has this morning announced a 24 man squad to face Australia in a friendly at the newly refurbished Thomond Park on August 12th next.

There were no real shocks at the delayed press conference, with no newcomers part of the contingent. However, a slim chance remains of Stephen Reid returning to ithe fold. The dynamic midfielder is returning from a lengthy lay-off and has been placed on stand-by with Damien Delaney and Alex Bruce.

On announcing the squad, Trapattoni said: “This upcoming friendly against Australia in Thomond Park in Limerick is of utmost importance to our side as it acts as our final game ahead of our World Cup qualifier against Cyprus in Nicosia in September.

"Australia, who have already qualified for the World Cup, will provide a stern test for the team as Pim Verbeek and his team have advanced through the Asian World Cup qualifiers undefeated in the final qualification phase.

“I am looking forward to playing an international friendly of this stature at the magnificent Thomond Park in Limerick. I am aware of the proud sporting culture in Limerick and I am sure that the people of Munster will get behind the team for this game.”

Goalkeepers: Shay Given, Keiren Westwood, Joe Murphy
Defenders: John O'Shea, Kevin Foley, Richard Dunne, Stephen Kelly, Kevin Kilbane, Eddie Nolan, Sean St. Ledger
Midfielders: Aiden McGeady, Damien Duff, Darron Gibson, Glenn Whelan, Keith Andrews, Liam Miller, Stephen Hunt, Andy Keogh, Liam Lawrence
Forwards: Caleb Folan, Kevin Doyle, Robbie Keane, Shane Long, Leon Best.

Tickets for the match are available for €25 (South terrace), €35 (East and West terrace) and €55 (East and West stands).