Soccer:Republic of Ireland under-21 manager Noel King has a few decisions to make ahead of his side's second European Championship qualifier, after losing striker Rhys Murphy to injury and James McCarthy to the senior squad.
Ireland beat Hungary 2-1 in Sligo last Thursday, with goals from Man United youngster Robbie Brady and Arsenal’s Murphy on his debut.
The latter will have to be replaced up front, however, after suffering a hamstring strain and Premier League regular McCarthy will be a hard man to replace as well.
“Losing Rhys Murphy is a blow because he had an impressive debut and did a good job for us on the night,” said King today. “We had lost Joe Mason, Seán Scannell and Aaron Doran in the build-up to the game so our attacking depth will be tested.”
Murphy’s absence could afford James Collins a chance after the Shrewsbury Town player was called up prior to the Hungary game at the Showgrounds.
Bohemians midfielder Lee Dixon was called in after McCarthy joined up with Giovanni Trapattoni ahead of tomorrow’s Euro 2012 qualifier in Moscow, but Chelsea’s Conor Clifford is expected to benefit from the Wigan midfielder’s absence.
“With a couple of forced changes made from the last game it gives other players an opportunity to show their quality in an important game like this,” King added.
“Turkey are a good side. I watched them beat Liechtenstein 6-1 and have watched other DVDs so we’ve done our homework on them and it’s up to the players now,” he said.
“The conditions are obviously a lot warmer than in Ireland but the players have eaten well, taken in the fluids and rested well.”
Ireland could draw level with Turkey at the top of Group 7 with a win tomorrow, but their hosts have begun the campaign brightly with nine goals in two games against Liechtenstein and Lithuania.
“The group won’t be decided on this game,” added King. “There are eight matches to play and we’re looking to build some momentum after a good result in our opening game.”
Republic of Ireland Under-21 Squad
Ian McLoughlin (MK Dons), Aaron McCarey (Wolves); Lanre Oyebanjo (York City), Shane Duffy (Everton), Gavin Gunning Dundee United), Rob Kiernan (Wigan Athletic), Niall Canavan (Scunthorpe United), Aidan White (Leeds United), Richie Towell (Hibernian FC – on loan from Celtic FC), Mark Connolly (Bolton Wanderers), Adam Barton (Preston North End), Conor Clifford (Chelsea), Lee Dixon (Bohemians), Jeff Hendrick (Derby County), Conor Hourihane (Plymouth Argyle), James Collins (Shrewsbury Town) Robbie Brady (Hull City FC - on loan from Manchester United FC)
