World Cup: Ireland hope to pick up points

Ireland take on Estonia in a World Cup qualifying tie in Tallinn at 5pm today, with three points fully expected from the match.

Despite the absence of captain Roy Keane, and first choice defenders Kenny Cunningham and Gary Breen, team coach, Mick McCarthy has said that the game is one that his side must win.

McCarthy has still to name the starting line-up for the game but Ipswich midfielder, Matt Holland is expected to deputise for the suspended Keane and Steve Staunton will become the most capped Irish player when he keeps his place on the team.

McCarthy will hand the captain's armband to Staunton to mark the occasion and the only other decision that he will have to make is whether or not to risk playing Robbie Keane, who was not match fit against Portugal on Saturday.