World Cup: Ireland prepare for Iran showdown

Ireland have the opportunity to book a place in the World Cup finals in Japan and Korea next year if they can overcome Iran in the Azadi stadium in Tehran this afternoon.

With a 2-0 lead from the first leg, manager Mick McCarthy is expected to tell his starting-11 to focus on denying Iran the opportunity to score.

Defender Steve Staunton is likely to claim his place in the team after overcoming a back injury, but striker Niall Quinn is still doubtful.

McCarthy has decided to delay naming his side until this morning as he awaits final fitness reports from both players.