Monday, October 10, 2011

Keane ruled out for Republic Cox to replace Keane in starting XI

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Robbie Keane: Missing for the crucial qualifier against Armenia through injury

Sky Bet

Robbie Keane has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2012 qualifier against Armenia on Tuesday through injury.
The Republic skipper is struggling with an adductor muscle injury he picked up in Friday's win over Andorra.
Keane has been unable to train since the game and he will now be forced to sit out the crucial qualifier as the Republic look to secure at least a play-off place.
West Brom forward Simon Cox will replace Keane in the side, getting the nod ahead of Baggies team-mate Shane Long to partner Kevin Doyle in attack.

Absence

In the absence of Keane, Shay Given will captain the Republic at the Avvia Stadium.
The Irish welcome back Richard Dunne after suspension and he will return in place of Darren O'Dea, while Stephen Kelly will take the place of the banned Stephen Ward.
A point for the Republic would secure a place in the play-offs to qualify for next year's finals, but a win for Armenia would see them leapfrog Giovanni Trapattoni's men.
Republic of Ireland team: Given, O'Shea, Dunne, St Ledger, S Kelly, McGeady, Whelan, Andrews, Duff, Doyle, Cox.