Kerr gives youth a chance

Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr has kept his pledge to give fringe players a taste of senior international football in tonight…

Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr has kept his pledge to give fringe players a taste of senior international football in tonight's final Unity Cup match against Jamaica at The Valley.

There are seven changes from the starting lineup against Nigeria, which ended in a 3-0 defeat - Ireland's heaviest for nine years.

Sheffield United keeper Paddy Kenny comes in for his second cap and a first start. John O'Shea returns to left back having recovered from an injury during Manchester United's FA Cup Final victory. Gary Doherty partners Andy O'Brien at the centre of defence.

Graham Barrett comes into midfield, with Matt Holland rested on his home ground, as do Alan Quinn and Andy Reid. Mark Kinsella has been handed the captain's arm band.

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Clinton Morrison, who turned down the chance to play for Jamaica, plays alongside Alan Lee in attack, with Robbie Keane among the 10 substitutes.

There are several familiar faces in the Reggae Boyz line-up, with Gillingham's Marlon King, Watford midfielder Micah Hyde and Charlton striker Kevin Lisbie all featuring.  There is no place, though, for rested Bolton star Ricardo Gardner.