By Ade O'Connor
October 12 2002

Newcastle and Republic of Ireland defender Andy O`Brien has been forced to withdraw from Irelands squad to face Switzerland, at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday. This news follows the exit of fellow defender Jeff Kenna, who earned his first call up for Ireland in 3 years. O`Brien had always been a doubt to make the game, following his hamstring injury in Newcastle United’s match against West Bromwich Albion last week. However, McCarthy called him into the squad in the hope that he could shake off this trouble. The 23-year-old centre back will now return to his club side in the hope of making himself available for selection for the team’s league game against Blackburn Rovers next week.

The Ireland manager Mick McCarthy now faces something of a weakened squad when they meet up on Saturday in Dublin. Ireland now only have one specialist right back available, Gary Kelly of Leeds, however Manchester United’s youngster John O`Shea could come into the reckoning after impressive club from.

Possible Ireland team to face Switzerland at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday:

Given; Harte, Kelly, Cunningham (c), Breen; Kilbane, McAteer, Holland, Kinsella; Duff, Keane.