Gibson gets backing from O'Shea

INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY
Rep of Ireland v Poland
Venue: Croke Park, Dublin Date: Wednesday, 19 November Kick-off: 2000 GMT Coverage: Live text commentary on BBC Sport website

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Darron Gibson has received support from his United team-mate

John O'Shea is confident Manchester United team-mate Darron Gibson can be a success for the Republic of Ireland.

The 21-year-old was handed a shock start in last month's win over Cyprus and he is set to feature in Wednesday's friendly with Poland in Dublin.

"He's a good, strong character and hopefully, with experience, he will get the confidence," said O'Shea.

"Central midfield is such an important position and it will take a bit of time for him."

"The last game in particular, it's tough to come in to a game like that, but he handled himself quite well."

Gibson is one of a new crop of youngsters pushing for recognition at United under the watchful eye of Sir Alex Ferguson, the man who has nursed the likes of Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and the Neville brothers, as well as O'Shea, through to the first team.

O'Shea added: "It's just people having faith in you and having belief in your ability.

"The manager has always believed in Darron's ability, and he is getting a few chances now at the club as well - hopefully, he can build on it."

O'Shea has started five of Trapattoni's six games in charge.

He only missed out on the first against Serbia in May because of his delayed arrival in the wake of United's Champions League success, and has firmly established himself as Richard Dunne's central defensive partner.

The first phase of the Italian's reign will draw to a close with the final game of the year against the Poles, and few could argue over his impact so far.

O'Shea said: "It's been positive. A win in Montenegro would have been nice as well, but we can't complain, really.

"It's a tricky game, Poland, but it's a good chance for us to build on the confident start we have had to the group."