Ireland face Poland in Dublin this Sunday in what is one of the more important games of Martin O'Neill's brief Irish managerial career. With Ireland sitting at 4th in the table on the same points as Germany and Scotland who are all three points behind Ireland's challengers on Sunday, Poland, this game has an air of a knock out tie.
Ireland wouldn't be knocked out with a loss, but it would severely dent their hopes.
With that in mind, here are five bold selections that Martin O'Neill should make to enhance our chances of coming away with the points on Sunday.
GK: Start Shay Given
Given hasn't been getting much gametime recently, but he's reminded people of his quality when he's got his chances for Aston Villa in the FA Cup. Meanwhile, David Forde is starting for Millwall who are in the relegation zone of the Championship having conceded 64 goals in 39 games.
LB: Play Robbie Brady
It worked very well against USA last November, and while he may not be match fit. With Stephen Ward injured, there's a decision to make. Although Marc Wilson would be a good bet here either, if he's not required as a centreback.
CB: Play Ciaran Clark
If O'Neill decides that Marc Wilson is the man for him at left back, we think Aston Villa centre back Ciaran Clark is a better option than regular Richard Keogh to partner John O'Shea in the heart of the defense. Keogh has only played 7 games this season for Derby in the Championship. Clark hasn't played that many more, but he's at a higher leve
CM: Play Stephen Quinn
James McCarthy should be a guarantee in the central of Ireland's midfield at this stage. Glenn Whelan is expected to partner him, but the all action play of Stephen Quinn that has impressed for Ireland before should be worth a go. His form for Hull has been very good, and he his more all around game should be something that Ireland look towards at home.
ST: In Form Players
Was the Scotland selection an aberration, or is it a sign of things to come for Robbie Keane. With the MLS just back in action, Keane isn't as match fit as some of the other more in form options. There may be a temptation to play Wes Hoolahan just off Shane Long, but the in form Harry Artur could be a great option after his storming season for Championship leaders Bournemouth. O'Neill might be tempted to play two strikers, in which case a forward who has 17 goals in 23 league games this season wouldn't be a bad option. Daryl Murphy is in great form, and should be expecting to get some gametime this weekend.
See Also: Here's What Ireland Need To Do To Qualify For Euro 2016
