Liam Lawrence has been handed the role of replacing Damien Duff in the Republic of Ireland team that face Italy tonight. The Stoke City midfielder has been handed his first starting role in a competitive game following up from his goal winning display in the friendly win against South Africa. Sean St Ledger will start the game in central defence and John O'Shea will move out to right back.
Stephen Hunt who statred against Cyprus drops to the bench with Aiden McGeady also starting on the left wing. Richard Dunne had recovered from a knock and will man the Irish defence.
Republic of Ireland: Shay Given, John O'Shea, Richard Dunne, Sean St Ledger, Kevin Kilbane, Liam Lawrence, Glenn Whelan, Keith Andrews, Aidan McGeady, Kevin Doyle, Robbie Keane.