Lawrence fails fitness test

Liam Lawrence failed a fitness test on a leg injury today so Keith Fahey started tonight’s Euro 2012 qualifier in Zilina in midfield as one of two changes for the Republic of Ireland from Friday’s 3-2 defeat by Russia.

Striker Kevin Doyle flew home at the weekend after picking up a knee problem and, as expected, manager Giovanni Trapattoni opted for Reading frontman Shane Long as his replacement, meaning Andy Keogh had to settle for a place on the bench.