Birmingham City fullback Stephen Kelly has been dropped from the Republic of Ireland team to face Cyprus in tonight's European qualifier at Croke Park.

In a reshuffled defence, Kevin Kilbane slots into the left back berth with Bolton's Joey O'Brien moving into midfield.

Kelly, who is named among the substitutes, may well feel hard done by having enjoyed one of his better days in a green shirt last Saturday.

Paul McShane, who returns from suspension having missed the drawn game with Germany, partners John O'Shea in the heart of the defence after the Manchester United man proved his fitness following a dead leg.

Playmaker Andy Reid has not trained this week owing to an ankle problem which flared up after the Germany game but has passed a morning fitness test and joins O'Brien in central midfield.

Stephen Hunt is another returning from suspension and slots in on the left flank while Wolves youngster Andy Keogh retains his place on the right wing ahead of Aiden McGeady and Liam Miller.

Captain Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle - who has overcome a minor foot injury - lead the attack.

Rep of Ireland:  Given; O'Brien, McShane, O'Shea, Finnan; Keogh, Reid, Kilbane, Hunt; Keane, Doyle.

Cyprus:  Giorgallidi, Satsias, Okkarides, Christou, Charalambides, Ilia, Garpozis, Makridis, Nikolaou, Okkas, Yiasoumi.

Referee:  Mikko Vuorela (Finland)