Trap door opens for Stokes

Sunderland striker Anthony Stokes has been called into the Republic of Ireland squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Italy.

The 20-year-old, currently on loan at Crystal Palace, flew into Dublin last night after Newcastle winger Damien Duff was sent home with a hamstring injury which has ruled him out of both games.

With Celtic winger Aiden McGeady also battling against a foot problem, manager Giovanni Trapattoni has moved to strengthen his options.

Assistant boss Liam Brady has already confirmed Reading’s Stephen Hunt will take Duff’s place in the team against Bulgaria at Croke Park tomorrow evening.

The Irish camp are hopeful that McGeady, who has a badly-bruised right foot, will be available, although that will depend on whether he is able to join in training with his team-mates today.

If he does not make it, the Italian will have to assess his options, and Stokes’ arrival will give him more cover.

Later Trapattoni also revealed that Stokes' Sunderland team-mate Paul McShane will start at full back.