Updated 18.20
JAMES MCCARTHY WILL replace the injured Glenn Whelan in Ireland’s starting line-up to face Sweden tonight.
Stoke midfielder Whelan had been carrying an ankle injury but was expected to be fit after being named alongside Paul Green in midfield by Giovanni Trapattoni earlier this week.
However, news emerged earlier afternoon that the 29-year-old hasn’t fully recovered in time and it has been confirmed that Wigan’s James McCarthy will replace him.
In a surprising move, Trapattoni has also decided to withdraw Robbie Brady for Jon Walters. The Italian yesterday questioned the Hull winger’s “psychological fitness” and with hours to go before kick-off (7.45pm Irish time) he has opted to make a late switch.
Ireland team to play Sweden: Forde, Coleman, O’Shea (c), Clark, Wilson, Walters, Whelan, McCarthy, McClean, Keane, Long.
