O'Brien and Doyle handed debuts

Bolton full-back Joey O'Brien is one of two new faces

Bolton full-back Joey O'Brien and Reading striker Kevin Doyle will make their Republic of Ireland debuts against Sweden on Wednesday.

New Republic boss Steve Staunton revealed: "I was going to play Joey even if Steven Finnan had been fit.

"Kevin's got a great chance to come on to the next level and he's well able to handle it. They've got an opportunity and we'll see what happens."

Staunton handed the captaincy to Tottenham striker Robbie Keane.

Liverpool full-back Finnan was not considered because of a "little" neck injury while Clinton Morrison sat out training with a tight groin.

Doyle, who was included in the squad for Brian Kerr's final two games in charge last October, has scored 15 goals for Reading this season, while O'Brien has become a regular at Bolton in his first full season.

Staunton is excited by the flexibility of his side and has no concerns over pairing Steven Reid and John O'Shea in central midfield.

"It's a great test for our lads," Staunton added. "It's an opportunity to see what top-class teams are like.

Keane awarded Republic captaincy

"I've got two or three games to get people a few caps and some experience.

"We'll be trying out different things so we know we can play 4-4-2 and we can change to help us and give us an advantage.

"I've always seen John O'Shea in that role and Steven Reid has come on in leaps and bounds - he's been fantastic this season.

"We look very flexible and we've enough bright players who can go and express themselves and that's what I want to see. I want them to enjoy it."

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Republic of Ireland team: Shay Given, Joey O'Brien, Andy O'Brien, Richard Dunne, Ian Harte, Stephen Elliot, Steven Reid, John O'Shea, Damien Duff, Robbie Keane, Kevin Doyle