O’Shea sits out training

Republic of Ireland defender John O’Shea was rested today as manager Giovanni Trapattoni nursed him back from an ankle problem.

The Sunderland player was on the training pitch with his team-mates in bright sunshine at Malahide this morning, although he did not work with them.

Keith Fahey and Kevin Foley, who have groin and hamstring problems respectively, trained in the gym, while skipper Robbie Keane is due to arrive later today, although there is little concern over his hamstring strain.

Glen Whelan is joining up with the rest of the panel today as he was given permission to delay his arrival due to his wedding.