McCarthy stays with trusted formula

There were no surprises in the Republic of Ireland World Cup squad, announced by coach Mick McCarthy this morning.

Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane will captain the 23-man party, which includes veterans Niall Quinn and Steve Staunton on what is likely to be their swansong for the national team.

With 188 caps between them, both are heading into their third World Cup and if Staunton plays four games in Japan and Korea - which would mean Ireland qualify for the knockout stages - he will become his country’s first international to win 100 caps.

At the other end of the scale, many hopes will rest on Blackburn’s exciting forward Damian Duff and Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison.

Also included, despite a difficult season at Leeds United, where he has failed to nail down the regular first-team place demanded by McCarthy, is Robbie Keane.

He has been selected alongside Elland Road team-mates Gary Kelly and Ian Harte.

In goal, McCarthy is spoilt for choice with Shay Given and Dean Kiely both impressive during the Premiership season, with veteran Alan Kelly also named as back-up.

Goalkeepers: Shay Given (Newcastle), Alan Kelly (Blackburn), Dean Kiely (Charlton).

Defenders: Gary Breen (Coventry), Kenny Cunningham (Wimbledon), Richard Dunne (Manchester City), Steve Finnan (Fulham), Ian Harte (Leeds), Gary Kelly (Leeds), Andy O'Brien (Newcastle), Steve Staunton (Aston Villa).

Midfielders: Lee Carsley (Everton), Damien Duff (Blackburn), Mark Kennedy (Wolves), Matt Holland (Ipswich), Roy Keane (Manchester Utd), Kevin Kilbane (Sunderland), Mark Kinsella (Charlton), Jason McAteer (Sunderland).

Forwards: David Connolly (Wimbledon), Robbie Keane (Leeds), Clinton Morrison (Crystal Palace), Niall Quinn (Sunderland).