Mark Kinsella is aiming to use tonight’s friendly against Turkey to persuade manager Brian Kerr to restore him to the Republic of Ireland midfield for next month’s decisive Euro 2004 Group 10 qualifier in Switzerland.

Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr today lost four players from his squad to face Turkey in Tuesday night’s friendly at Lansdowne Road.

Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given came through the Republic of Ireland’s final training session at Lansdowne Road this morning and is fit to face Russia tomorrow.

John O’Shea has revealed how Manchester United team-mate Wes Brown gave him an insight into the hostility he will face against Albania here tomorrow night.