Two legs pleases McCarthy

Mick McCarthy is happy with two-legged play-off

Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy has welcomed the news that their World Cup play-off game will be over two legs.

The Irish will be at home for the first leg on Saturday 10 November.

But they will not know who their Asian opponents will be until later this month.

There had been suggestions that the tie should be played as a one-off at a neutral venue because of security concerns.

"It is a real bonus for our marvellous Irish fans with the first game being in Dublin," said McCarthy.

War situation

"They have been magnificent throughout our Group Two unbeaten qualifying campaign," said McCarthy.

Saudi Arabia, Iran, Uzbekistan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are all potential opponents for the the Republic.

"Hopefully I will be able to watch the two play-off games between the Asian nations before the winners come to Dublin next month," added McCarthy.

Fifa have indicated that the second leg of the Republic's tie may yet be switched to a neutral country should the current war situation in the Middle East and Asia continue.

"We will be guided by Fifa on where that match should take place," said McCarthy.

The Republic hope to have a full-strength squad available.

Yellow cards

Back after a one-match ban comes Leeds United defender Gary Kelly.

Midfielders Mark Kinsella, Jason McAteer, defender Kenny Cunningham, and in-form striker Robbie Keane were kept in cotton wool for the final qualifying game against Cyprus last Saturday.

The quartet had received yellow cards in earlier matches of the qualifying tournament.

But McCarthy will definitely have them available for that vital November 10 play-off at Lansdowne Road.