Reading striker Kevin Doyle will start in place of suspended Republic of Ireland skipper Robbie Keane, while Celtic's Aiden McGeady got the nod over midfielder Jonathan Douglas, in their must-win Euro 2008 qualifier against Slovakia at Croke Park on Wednesday.

Manager Steve Staunton rung in the changes as Tottenham striker Keane serves suspension while McGeady, who impressed coming on as a substitute in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Wales, makes his first competitive start at home.

As expected, Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given, who had a knee problem, and Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland, who nursed a thigh concern, are also named in the team.

The Magpies keeper is set to equal Packie Bonner's goalkeeping record of 80 international caps for Ireland between 1981-1994.

Germany lead Group D on 13 points. The Czech Republic and Ireland are on 10 points while Slovakia are a point further back, but with a game in hand over the Irish.

Ireland: Shay Given; John O'Shea, Richard Dunne, Paul McShane, Steve Finnan; Lee Carsley, Kevin Kilbane, Stephen Ireland, Aiden McGeady; Damien Duff, Kevin Doyle.

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