Givens names starting 11

Republic of Ireland Under-21 manager Don Givens has named his starting 11 for tomorrow night’s vital clash against Portugal at Turner’s Cross (kick-off 7.45pm).

Celtic defender Darren O’Dea will captain the side as they kick-start their bid to qualify for the 2009 UEFA Under-21 European Championship. Cork-born duo Stephen O’Halloran and Billy Clarke will also start the match, giving them an opportunity to impress in front of their hometown crowd.

Clarke will be joined up front by Adam Rooney and James O’Brien, while the midfield trio of Stephen Gleeson, Patrick Cregg and Stephen Quinn will play behind them.

O’Halloran and O’Dea will play in defence, alongside Richard Keogh and Eddie Nolan, while Darren Randolph has been named as the starting goalkeeper.

Manager Don Givens believes the side is strong enough to over-come a tough Portuguese challenge.

“Portugal are a very good team and we will need to maintain high levels of concentration and discipline if we are to beat them”, he said.

“We have recently recorded good results against Holland and Germany, two other top sides, so there is no reason why we can’t do it again against Portugal.

“We are hoping for a large crowd at Turner’s Cross because a big, vocal crowd would really help the lads. The people of Cork have always been very good at supporting football at all age levels, so we hope they will turn-out in force again.”

A limited number of tickets for the match are available through Ticketmaster outlets. Supporters will also be able to purchase tickets outside the stadium prior to the match. Tickets cost €25 for adults and €10 for children.

Republic of Ireland Under-21 starting XI v Portugal:

Darren Randolph (Charlton Athletic)

Eddie Nolan (Blackburn Rovers)

Richard Keogh (Bristol City)

Darren O’Dea (Celtic) - captain

Stephen O’Halloran (Aston Villa)

Patrick Cregg (Falkirk)

Stephen Gleeson (Wolverhampton Wanderers)

Stephen Quinn (Sheffield United)

James O’Brien (Celtic)

Adam Rooney (Stoke City)

Billy Clarke (Ipswich Town)