Ireland begin preparations for crucial Slovakia qualifier

Steve Staunton's Irish squad are due to train at Malahide today ahead of Wednesday's Euro 2008 qualifier against Slovakia at Croke Park.

Stephen Ireland looks set to be fit for the game despite leaving the field with a groin strain during Saturday's lacklustre win over Wales.

However, injury concerns still hang over goalkeeper Shay Given, who hurt his knee during the match.

Staunton will be looking for a much better performance against Slovakia to maintain Ireland's hopes of qualification following widespread criticism of the tactics adopted against the Welsh.