James McClean will be one of up to seven Irish players on view for Giovanni Trapattoni this weekend as the Irish manager continues his new scouting policy at the Britannia Stadium.
By Declan Whooley
Sunderland travel to Stoke in a Premier League clash that could see as many as seven Irish players come under the gaze of the Italian manager.
The Sunderland winger has not always seen eye to eye with Trap – he is not alone there – but will get the perfect opportunity to show what the Ireland team is missing. John O’Shea will look to continue his club form after netting in the derby against Newcastle last week, while David Meyler may come off the bench.
Kieren Westwood is unlikely to see any action unless number one choice Simon Mignolet succumbs to an injury, while the Stoke starting line-up will feature regulars Marc Wilson and Jonathan Walters.
Glenn Whelan’s participation is dependent on a niggling hamstring injury, but is hopeful of shaking it off in time.
Fresh from his trip to Carrow Road last weekend, his first since he was instructed by the FAI to attend more games, this fixture is one of the richest from an Irish players perspective.
Let’s hope the DVD player in Italy gathers some dust.
