Preparations for Italy showdown continue

The Republic of Ireland squad is due to train in Malahide again today ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Italy.

Manager Giovanni Trapattoni is assessing his midfield options after Damien Duff, Steven Reid and Darron Gibson were all ruled out of the crucial clash along with Caleb Folan.

Trapattoni has decided to bring in Martin Rowlands in place of Duff, with Andy Reid appearing to be still out of favour with the Italian.

The starting midfield line-up on Saturday is likely to include Glenn Whelan, Keith Andrews, Aiden McGeady and Stephen Hunt.