Yesterday, we took a look at Ireland's probable lineup to take on Germany tonight and it's clear that there's still a few toss of a coin decisions for Martin O'Neill to make. No where more is that clear than at centre back. Ciaran Clark is out, Marc Wilson is (more than likely) out and the world champions are waiting.
John O'Shea's central defensive partner is going to be key. We may well try and pack the midfield but at some stage tonight, we're going to be under the cosh. So who should Martin O'Neill rely on in such a crucial position?
In our crystal ball gazing we opted for Richard Keogh but one man who would disagree with us is former Ireland international Stephen Reid. Writing in the Irish Independent today, Reid has launched a rather convincing plea for O'Neill to opt for Paul McShane.
The Reading captain has been out of favour under O'Neill but we're not exactly blessed for centre halves at the moment so the Ireland boss just may turn to McShane and that's exactly what Reid wants to see.
Every game, he goes for every ball as if this is it, this is the moment his career could be defined.
People talk about Roy Keane and the passion he exerted. Well, in terms of passion, desire and commitment, Macker is Keane's equal. He may not have won as much as Keane but he has that same intense level of determination burning inside him.
He's convinced us but it may be a bit of a problem that we're now expecting Dunne in Moscow level stuff from McShane tonight.
