Lawrence to start against Italy at Croke Park

Liam Lawrence has been named in the starting line-up for tomorrow night's crucial World Cup qualifier against Italy at Croke Park.

The game will be the 28-year-old Stoke player's first competitive start.

He has been included to try and snuff out the threat of Fabio Grosso, the Italians' attacking left full-back.

Ireland team: Shay Given, John O'Shea, Richard Dunne, Sean St Ledger, Kevin Kilbane, Liam Lawrence , Keith Andrews, Glenn Whelan, Aiden McGeady, Robbie Keane, Kevin Doyle.