Talking points as John O’Shea takes charge for Republic of Ireland v Belgium

Republic of Ireland interim head coach John O’Shea has decisions to make ahead of Saturday’s friendly against Belgium (Niall Carson/PA)

Interim boss John O’Shea will send the Republic of Ireland into friendly battle with Belgium on Saturday after being placed in temporary charge of the team he represented with such distinction.

The former Ireland defender has stepped into the shoes vacated by Stephen Kenny in November for the clash with FIFA’s fourth-ranked team and Switzerland’s visit to the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday evening.