Stack earns Ireland call-up
West Brom's Joe Murphy misses the match with the world champions because of a back injury.
"I spoke with Gary Megson [the West Brom manager]," Brian Kerr said. "He has already lost Russell Hoult and Joe is going to get his chance in the first team, which will mean more experience for him. It is better that he is there, than here."
Kerr spoke last week about the need for more experienced cover for Shay Given. His hand has been forced in this instance, although the Irish manager has no doubts about Stack.
"He has been playing regularly for Don in the U21 team and I have spoken to Gerry Peyton, the goalkeeping coach at Highbury.
"He is a good size, good hands and he looks to be very confident. Most goalkeepers don't mature until they get older, but he seems to be mature for a young goalie. He still has a lot to learn, though."
Despite the options offered by Stack and Sheffield United's Paddy Kenny, Kerr insists he will use Given tomorrow night.
"I have no problem with using Paddy. He has played a lot of big games and has a lot of experience in pressure matches. But we haven't really used Shay in a lot of friendlies, so I would like to."
Steve Finnan aside (rested after his recovering from Sunday's cup exertions), the entire squad trained yesterday. Kerr's midfield selection will come under a lot of scrutiny. He has already indicated Andy Reid will play, after his smashing debut in November, and it will be interesting to see if he plays in the left or centre.
The midfield talents of Liam Miller, Stephen Reid and Colin Healy, were also mentioned. They will be expected to stake a claim for a regular place over the next eight months.
"Players that come in and do well over these games will have earned their place," Kerr says. "This is the start of a new year for us and I would like to see us performing well. I would like to see some players improving their performances. If we get a result against Brazil, well and good, but we might have to take a hit in these games. If you are giving people the opportunity to impress, it is inevitable you may lose some games."
The return of Jason McAteer offers Kerr another option, although at 32 the Sunderland skipper is hardly a long-term prospect. Graham Kavanagh is another option.
"It is just great to be back in the squad," said the Cardiff City captain, whose international return, against Canada last November, was ended by Mark Bircham's hacking challenge.
"I am just looking to do as well as I possibly can when I am here, and if I am involved against Brazil, it will be fantastic."
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