JONATHAN WALTERS’ chances of making his senior debut for Ireland against Norway next week appear to have improved with the news that captain Robbie Keane has been forced to withdraw from the final 25-man squad for the friendly game at the Aviva Stadium.

Stephen Hunt has been drafted into the Republic of Ireland squad for the first time this season for the friendly against Norway in Dublin on November 17.

DIEGO MARADONA won’t be in Dublin for Ireland’s glamour friendly with Argentina after the Argentina FA’s executive committee last night opted not to renew his contract.

STEPHEN IRELAND might still be on a self-imposed exile from international football but that hasn’t stopped him being nominated for a Young Player Of the Year gong in the 18th eircom/FAI International Awards, which will be broadcast live on RTÉ in February.

IAN HARTE has finally been handed an international reprieve despite a bust-up earlier in the season with Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr.

Sheffield United goalkeeper Paddy Kenny has been called into the Republic of Ireland squad for the first time for the friendly clash with Brazil on February 18 at Lansdowne Road.

Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy and Nigeria boss Adegboye Onigbinde have named their strongest teams for the friendly match at Lansdowne Road tonight.

Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy was giving few hints today on his possible 23-man squad for the World Cup finals in Japan and South Korea this summer.

The Republic of Ireland team to face Iran in tomorrow's World Cup play-off features two changes from the side which beat Cyprus.