Hoolahan gets his chance

01 November 2012 07:47

In-form Norwich midfielder Wes Hoolahan will get a chance to make an impression at international level after being named in Giovanni Trapattoni's latest Republic of Ireland squad.

The 30-year-old, who won his solitary cap for his country in 2008, has been one of the Canaries' outstanding performers over the past year and his efforts have now been recognised by Ireland's veteran boss.

Trapattoni, 73, is under pressure after a poor Euro 2012 and a 6-1 hammering by Germany in a World Cup qualifier last month.

The Italian has included Hoolahan in a provisional 26-man to face Greece in a friendly at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on November 14 as he seeks to "try out new players".

As a result of that policy, the one notable omission is that of captain and record goalscorer Robbie Keane, who will be rested and allowed to remain with his club - Los Angeles Galaxy.

There have been calls for Hoolahan to be selected for some time, although he was unable to accept a call-up in August due to injury.

The latest squad does contain experience in the likes of John O'Shea, Paul McShane, Keith Andrews, Glenn Whelan, Aiden McGeady and Kevin Doyle.

Fulham defender Stephen Kelly is also included despite reports of a bust-up between him and assistant coach Marco Tardelli between the October matches against Germany and the Faroe Islands.

But there are also 12 players who have made less than 10 appearances, including uncapped Everton defender Shane Duffy and Chelsea midfielder Conor Clifford.

Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clark is included despite being out of action for almost a month with a knee problem while Stoke left-back Marc Wilson is missing after breaking his leg in his club's draw with Sunderland last weekend. Injuries have also ruled out Sean St Ledger, Shane Long and Richard Dunne.

Source: PA