Stephen Kenny has named his Ireland side to take on Luxembourg in a key World Cup qualifier at the Aviva Stadium this evening, making three changes from the team that lost in Serbia in midweek.
After a questionable showing in midweek, goalkeeper Mark Travers has been replaced by 19-year old Gavin Bazunu, who will be making his international debut. Bazunu has been in impressive form for Rochdale this season on-loan from Manchester City.
James Collins comes into the side in place of the injured Aaron Connolly, with Troy Parrott taking his place on the bench.
There is also a change in midfield where Jason Knight will start instead of Jayson Molumby.
The defence remains the same, with Ireland looking set to play a 3-5-2 formation once again.
Here is the team in full:
STARTING XI | Ireland v Luxembourg
▪️ Gavin Bazunu makes his senior debut 👊
▪️ James Collins comes in for Connolly
▪️ Jason Knight comes into the midfield
Huge game at the @AVIVAStadium, come on Ireland 🇮🇪#WEAREONE | #COYBIG | #IRLLUX pic.twitter.com/5zQaqtkqW6— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) March 27, 2021
A win in this fixture will be key if Ireland are to have any chance of qualifying for next year's World Cup, while Stephen Kenny is also still searching for his first victory as Ireland boss.
Their performance in Belgrade on Wednesday night was a good one even if it did result in defeat. A similar showing in this game should be enough to defeat Luxembourg, even accounting for their recent improvements.
Here's hoping that long overdue win can be picked up this evening.
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