Striking problem for big game

FOR all the glamour of the occasion, firepower might be somewhat diluted at the Aviva Stadium tomorrow night, with Ireland sweating on the fitness of Kevin Doyle and Carlos Tevez set to sit out the game for Argentina.

The doubt about the Wolves striker is the last thing Giovanni Trapattoni needs, as he has already lost Caleb Folan and Shane Long to injury. Anthony Stokes and Cillian Sheridan will both join up with the senior squad tomorrow but since either or both could be in action for the U21s against Estonia in Tallaght Stadium tonight, that is hardly an ideal scenario. As things stand, right now Robbie Keane is the only confirmed starter amongst Ireland’s forwards on a night when he will win his 100th cap for his country.

However, Doyle, who just did some light training yesterday, is still hoping to make the kick-off.