The Republic of Ireland's friendly tie with New Zealand will see two international debuts after Mick McCarthy named his starting team on Wednesday. Lee O'Connor and Troy Parrott will both start the game at the Aviva Stadium.
The FAI took the unusual option of naming the team a day early. Speaking at a pre-match press conference earlier today, McCarthy confirmed players starting on Thursday were unlikely to play against Denmark next week for the crucial European Championships qualifier.
Kieran O'Hara starts in goals with Ciaran Clark partnering Kevin Long in front of him. Celtic's O'Connor and Derrick Williams operate as full-backs. In midfield, Josh Cullen, Alan Browne and Jack Byrne make up the three. Robbie Brady and Sean Maguire will play either side of Troy Parrott, who leads the line.
2 International debuts!
2 First-time starters!
Here is your Ireland team for tomorrow's @ThreeIreland International Friendly against New Zealand
Tickets still available ➡️ https://t.co/sa7BcXr5yt #IRLNZL🇮🇪🇳🇿#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/cjelooLNIl— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) November 13, 2019
The Ireland manager also confirmed Mark Travers will play some part. There are no new injury concerns ahead of the game. Kick-off is at 7.45 pm.
