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Monday, 20 August 2007, 09:22 GMT 10:22 UK

Staunton moves to secure Gibson

Darron Gibson and Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton

Denmark v Rep of Ire
Parken Stadion, Aarhus
Wednesday, 22 August
Kick-off: 1900 BST
Coverage on BBC Radio 5live & the BBC Sport website.

Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton has called up Manchester United prospect Darron Gibson to his squad for Wednesday's friendly in Denmark.

Staunton's decision came after Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington revealed that he was trying to persuade Gibson to switch allegiance from the Republic.

The 19-year-old, who was born in Londonderry, is currently at the centre of a dispute between the two countries.

Paul McShane and Stephen Elliott have pulled out of the Republic squad.

606: DEBATE

McShane needed stitches to a head wound picked up in Sunderland's defeat by Wigan on Saturday while Elliott has an ankle injury.

Manager Steve Staunton is expected to announce replacements for the duo on Monday.

Gibson played for Northern Ireland U16s but then opted for the Republic.

Since then, the Derryman has earned U17, U19 and U21 caps for the Republic and he was scheduled to be involved in Tuesday's U21 international against Germany in Furth.

Gibson has not played for the Republic at senior level although he was a non-playing substitute in a Euro 2008 qualifier against San Marino.

The Irish FA, which governs football in Northern Ireland, is awaiting a Fifa ruling on Gibson's eligibility.

Richard Dunne sustained a head gash in Manchester City's win over Manchester United on Sunday but he is expected to arrive in Dublin on Monday.

His club-mate Stephen Ireland didn't play in the Manchester derby because of illness but Staunton is hoping that the midfielder will link up with the squad.

Staunton is in mourning after the death of his father Tom following a long illness.

Mr Staunton's funeral takes place in Dundalk on Monday morning and the Republic manager will rejoin the Irish squad on Tuesday.



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Related to this story:

NI boss targets Republic's Gibson (19 Aug 07 |  Internationals )
Gibson included in Republic squad (30 Jan 07 |  Internationals )
FAI responds over NI defections (25 Oct 06 |  Internationals )

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