Giovanni Trapattoni has named Conor Sammon in the starting eleven for Ireland’s international friendly with Poland. An Irish side driven by mainly the younger and less experienced players in the squad will take to the field tomorrow night at the Aviva Stadium as Giovanni Trapattoni flirts with mild experimentation in the build up to next month's crucial World Cup qualifiers.

Sammon, the Derby County striker, will make his debut tomorrow night at the Aviva Stadium, while his club teammates Richard Keogh and Jeff Hendrick – who are also uncapped at senior international level – are in the manager’s plans for tomorrow night and can expect to make an appearance.

Millwall’s David Forde will start the game in goals, as Sunderland’s Kieren Westwood must watch from the bench.

In defence Ciaran Clark starts alongside captain John O’Shea, while Bristol City’s Greg Cunningham starts at left back and Paul McShane occupys the right back slot.

The midfield is a youthful proposition, with Robbie Brady, James McLean and James McCarthy all starting alongside Glenn Whelan.

Shane Long will partner Conor Sammon up front in a 4-4-2 formation, however Trapattoni said Wes Hoolahan is likely to come into the game in the second half and with his introduction we will see Ireland alter to a 4-5-1 formation.

Ireland starting XI

Gk: David Forde

Lb: Greg Cunningham

Rb: Paul McShane

Cb: John O’Shea (c)

Cb: Ciaran Clark

Mf: Robbie Brady

Mf: James McCarthy

Mf: Glenn Whelan

Mf: James McLean

Fw: Conor Sammon

Fw: Shane Long

 

Photo credit: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy