Soccer: McCarthy opts for no-risk policy

Mick McCarthy has adopted a no-risks policy for the World Cup Group Two qualifier at home to Cyprus.

McCarthy has left out four players who are already on one yellow card apiece in the campaign.

Leeds striker Robbie Keane, Charlton midfielder Mark Kinsella, Wimbledon defender Kenny Cunningham and Blackburn winger Jason McAteer are all rested.

McCarthy boss does not want to take the chance of any being booked and suspended for a likely play-off.

Whatever the result against Cyprus, Ireland are already assured of at least second place in the group but they would have to score at least nine goals to finish top and gain automatic entry to the finals if Portugal gain an expected win against Estonia in Lisbon.

Republic of Ireland team to play Cyprus in Dublin tomorrow: Given (Newcastle), Finnan (Fulham), Breen (Coventry), Staunton (Aston Villa), Harte (Leeds), Kennedy (Wolves), Keane (Man Utd, captain), Holland (Ipswich), Kilbane (Sunderland), Quinn (Sunderland), Connolly (Wimbledon