Kilbane set for role in defence

Kilbane has been playing in defence for Wigan in recent weeks

Slovakia v Republic of Ireland
Bratislava
Saturday, 8 September
Kick-off: 1930 BST
Coverage on BBC Radio 5live & the BBC Sport website.

Kevin Kilbane is expected to be entrusted with a full-back role for the Republic of Ireland in Saturday's vital Euro 2008 qualifier in Slovakia.

With Steve Finnan and Stephen Carr out because of injury, Kilbane is likely to start at left-back with John O'Shea switching to right-back.

Stephen Ireland and Lee Carsley will probably get midfield roles after missing the friendly win in Denmark.

Aiden McGeady and Andy Reid are being tipped to play on the midfield flanks.

Otherwise, the Republic team is likely to be along expected lines with Shay Given returning in goals and Richard Dunne partnered by Paul McShane in central defence.

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O'Shea and McShane have both been passed fit to start after being minor doubts earlier this week.

The established forward partnership of Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle will start up front.

Kilbane, who has been operating in defence for Wigan in recent weeks, has seen action in all of the Republic's last 43 competitive internationals.

Slovakia, who are without their key striker Robert Vittek, looked a fast yet physical side at Croke Park and it remains to be seen what effect the dreadful Bratislava weather will have on the proceedings.

Relentless heavy rain over the past two days has left the pitch a quagmire although Republic manager Steve Staunton has played down the conditions.

Behind runaway leaders Germany, the runner-up spot in the group is a battle between the Czechs, the Republic and the Slovakians.

With all three teams having five matches to play, the Czechs are a point clear of Staunton's team, who are a further four ahead of Slovakia.