Updated at 19.12

IRELAND MANAGER MARTIN O’Neill has named his team to face Wales in this evening’s crucial World Cup qualifier (7.45pm).

The Boys in Green must win in Cardiff to secure a place in the play-offs, and do so without Shane Long as the Southampton striker was ruled out earlier today.

O’Neill has made three changes from the side that beat Moldova 2-0 on Friday night. James McClean and Robbie Brady return from suspension come in for Long and Callum O’Dowda.

Bournemouth’s Harry Arter gets the nod in midfield with Wes Hoolahan dropping to the bench. Daryl Murphy, who scored twice in Ireland’s last game, retains his place up front, with Sean Maguire and Scott Hogan named among the substitutes.

The Wales team is the same one that overcame Georgia last time out, with the exception of striker Hal Robson-Kanu taking the place of Sam Vokes.

Ireland (4-2-3-1): Darren Randolph; Cyrus Christie, Shane Duffy, Ciaran Clark, Stephen Ward; David Meyler, Harry Arter; Robbie Brady, Jeff Hendrick, James McClean; Daryl Murphy.

Wales (4-2-3-1): Wayne Hennessy; Chris Gunter, James Chester, Ashley Williams, Ben Davies; Joe Allen, Joe Ledley; Andy King, Aaron Ramsey, Tom Lawrence; Hal Robson-Kanu.

Subscribe to The42 podcasts here:

Watch: QPR youngster hits hat-trick as Ireland U21s maintain unbeaten start to qualifying

The Republic of Ireland are unlikely to face the North if they reach the play-offs