Five debut for Ireland

Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni handed debuts to five players in his starting XI for the friendly against Nigeria at Craven Cottage.

Kevin Foley, Eddie Nolan and Sean St Ledger were in defence, with Richard Dunne providing the experience, while Liam Lawrence made his long-awaited first appearance after being in previous squads without playing.

Leon Best started in attack alongside skipper Robbie Keane.

Shay Given was fit enough to start in goal after recovering from a hip problem, with Keiren Westwood on the bench.

John Utaka started for the Africans while Portsmouth team-mate Kanu was on the bench.

Rep of Ireland: Given, Foley, Dunne, St. Ledger, Nolan, Duff, Miller, Andrews, Lawrence, Keane, Best.

Subs: Westwood, Kilbane, McShane, Keogh, Kelly, Hunt, McGeady, Whelan, Long.

Nigeria: Ejide, Adefemi, Sodje, Mohammed, Olofinjana, Aluko, Uche, Adeleye, Utaka, Akpala, Eneramo.

Subs: Enyeama, Kanu, Nwaneri, Obinna, Odemwingie, Etuhu.

Referee: William Collum (Scotland)