Ireland call on Butler

Sunderland midfielder Thomas Butler has been drafted into the Ireland squad for tomorrow’s friendly with Finland in Helsinki.

Manager Mick McCarthy has been left with just 16 fit players, including Shay Given and Gary Breen, who will play in the Premiership tonight when Newcastle entertain West Ham at St James’ Park.

Butler was called up from Don Givens’ Under-21 squad after McCarthy’s attempts to draft in Wearside team-mate Phil Babb bit the dust when the centre-half was ruled out with a back injury.

McCarthy is also without Andy O’Brien (shin), Steve Finnan (ankle), Steven Reid (ankle), Clinton Morrison (groin), Richard Sadlier (hip) and Steven Carr (hamstring).

However, Charlton’s Mark Kinsella has been given the green light to travel after recovering from the virus which ruled him out of the Premiership opener with Chelsea at the Valley on Saturday.

Jason McAteer will skipper the side as he wins his 50th cap, just weeks after threatening to walk out on the World Cup.

“He thought about it out loud but it can’t have been too serious because he never mentioned it to me,” said McCarthy.

“He is 31, was out of the team and wondered what was ahead. I am delighted he is still around and playing. He is a very youthful 31 and adds something to our team.”