Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has suggested that Sunderland winger James McClean could make his first competitive start against Kazakhstan.
The Sunderland winger has started the season in good form for Martin O'Neill's side bagging two goals for the Black Cats in the League Cup. If is widely expected that McClean would take over the left sided midfield position left vacant by the now retired Damian Duff.
"After his 90 minutes against Serbia, his position was clear," Trapattoni said.
"We tried to play him differently but after 20 minutes I changed his position. Maybe in Kazakhstan McClean will play up with the two strikers. That is not a problem for him.
"We have also other players who can play in that position.
"The position is different (to where he usually plays), but he can also play there. We will wait and see what the condition of the other players is but he could play there."
Rep of Ireland are best price 4/5 to win the match against Kazakhstan with
Paddy Power while the home side are 7/2 to claim the three points. The draw is available at 5/2 with the Irish firm.
McClean is 10/1 to get the first goal of the game with
Paddy Power while all-time record goalscorer Robbie Keane is the 4/1 favourite.
Kazakhstan 7/2
Draw 5/2
Rep of Ireland 4/5
R. Keane 4/1
S. Long 11/2
K. Doyle 11/2
J. Walters 7/1
J. McClean 10/1
