James McClean and Rob Elliot have been handed starting berths for tonight's clash with Slovakia at the Aviva Stadium.

Martin O'Neill has opted for an experimental side this evening, coping with just one recognised striker in his starting line-up in the form of Shane Long.

Eunan O'Kane is also given his chance to impress, while John O'Shea returns to the backline.

Ireland Squad to face Slovakia: Elliot; Christie, O'Shea, McShane, Ward; O'Kane, Whelan, McCarthy, Hoolahan, McClean; Long