Gibson preferred in midfield

Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni made one change to the starting line-up he prematurely named last night for their friendly against Australia in Limerick.

The Italian promoted young Manchester United midfielder Darron Gibson ahead of Keith Andrews, a change he had hinted at as he seeks to see more of the upcoming 21-year-old who wins just his sixth cap.

Otherwise the Republic team was the same with captain Robbie Keane partnered up front by Kevin Doyle, who was cleared to play by his Wolves boss Mick McCarthy despite undergoing a hernia operation last month.

Australia midfielder Marco Bresciano started to win his 50th cap while their clubless skipper Lucas Neill was not named in the squad, to inspire speculation he had flown out to complete a move to an unnamed club.

In his absence Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer took the captain’s armband.