Staunton rings the changes

Under-fire Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton was forced to make major changes to his side for tonight’s Euro 2008 qualifier against the Czech Republic.

With 14 players unavailable, West Brom centre-back Paul McShane was handed his debut, while Birmingham right-back Stephen Kelly and Brighton goalkeeper Wayne Henderson made their first competitive starts.

Lee Carsley returned to the side after spending the last two-and-a-half years in retirement, lining up as part of a five-man midfield in which Jonathan Douglas also started for the first time.

The Czechs – group D leaders – showed one change from the team which defeated San Marino 7-0 on Saturday, coach Karel Bruckner bringing in defender Radoslav Kovac for striker Marek Kulic.