Despite a number of injury pull outs, including John O`Shea who limped off during Saturday’s game, and Shay Given who picked up a knock during the same game.

Lee Carsley has also returned to his club, along with captain Kenny Cunningham.

As a result, Nick Colgan is expected to start his second international game, as chief cover for Ireland and Newcastle number 1, Shay Given.

Andy O`Brien and Richard Dunne should get the nod in the centre half positions, with Kerr looking to explore his options for a replace for Kenny Cunningham when he is suspended for the pivotal Switzerland match.

Mark Kinsella will get a chance to win his place back in the team, after being edged out by Colin Healy, who was rather disappointing against Russia. Perhaps Kerr will give Healy the chance to redeem himself tonight, with a more gritty display, as he is known for.

Up front, David Connolly will be given a shot at proving his worth to the starting eleven, along with Gary Doherty, who requires the match practice as much as anything.

Turkey will be a very tough opposition for Ireland, after they reached the semi finals of the World Cup in 2002. In the past decade the Turkish FA has gone a long was to building the foundations to a good national team, they can reap the rewards today.

Ireland has their work cut out here, and if Brian Kerr extends his unbeaten run to 9 games, it will be a surprise to many.

A performance may well be the most important thing in this friendly though; the previous four outings for Ireland have been a little flat.

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