Henderson out of Republic squad

Wayne Henderson started against San Marino last month

Group D: Rep of Ire v Wales
Date: Saturday 24 March
Kick-off: 1500 GMT
Venue: Croke Park
Coverage: Live on BBC Radio Wales, updates on the BBC Sport website

Brighton goalkeeper Wayne Henderson has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland squad for Saturday's Euro 2008 qualifier against Wales at Croke Park.

Henderson, who was expected to be on the bench, has a finger ligament problem so Birmingham keeper Colin Doyle has been added to the squad.

West Brom defender Paul McShane remains doubtful because of an ankle injury.

Manchester City's Stephen Ireland and Reading's Stephen Hunt are expected to be available despite recent injuries.

Midfielder Ireland joins up with the squad on Wednesday after a few days with Manchester City for treatment on his own ankle injury.

Manager Staunton said that Hunt "will be okay for the weekend" despite a painful instep.

Henderson started in last month's 2-1 away victory over San Marino but fit-again Shay Given is certain to return to the Republic side for the first ever football international at Croke Park.

Wigan Athletic striker Caleb Folan has already pulled out of the squad because of injury and he has been replaced by Wolves forward Andy Keogh.

Folan's withdrawal left Celtic defender Darren O'Dea as the only new face for the qualifiers on 24 and 28 March.

The 24-year-old Folan qualifies for the Republic through his grandparents and only got his Irish passport on Wednesday.