Hallgrímsson hands Ferguson and O'Brien starting berths for Aviva clash with Bulgaria 

Heimir Hallgrímsson has brought O’Brien in to replace centre-back Dara O’Shea while Ryan Manning misses out for Evan Ferguson.

ake O'Brien of Republic of Ireland before the UEFA Nations League B/C Play-off 2nd Leg match between Republic of Ireland and Bulgaria. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Jake O’Brien has been elevated to the starting line-up for Ireland as they aim to consolidate their status in League B of Uefa Nations League.

Thursday’s 2-1 win in Plovdiv generates a small cushion for Ireland to expand at Lansdowne Road (7.45pm).