Irish ready for fiery welcome

IRELAND’S U17s face a cauldron of noise at the Tsentralniy Stadium in Almaty today (2pm) when 5,000 fans will be backing Kazakhstan’s bid to usurp John Morling’s side in their bid for UEFA U19 qualification.

Wednesday’s 8-0 thrashing of Liechtenstein gives Ireland the chance to secure progress from the first phase of qualifiers with victory today.

Kazakhstan lost their opener to the Czech Republic and must win today.

“Thousands more will show up for this one and it’s also being broadcast live on national TV,” said Morling. Donegal native Ryan McConnell, the subject of interest from Manchester United, has overcome an ankle injury and is available for selection.

IRELAND U17 (probable): S Fagan (Coventry); C Whittle (De La Salle), K McFadden (Norwich), R O’Reilly (Stoke), S Coyne (Cherry Orchard); D Hayes (Derby), J Leddy (Ipswich), G O’Neill (Wolves); D McGlade (Middlesbrough), S Byrne (Man Utd), J Grealish (Aston Villa).