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Rep of Ireland v Brazil preview

Image: Ireland: Brazil test

Republic of Ireland welcome Brazil to Croke Park as the search for Steve Staunton's successor rumbles on.

Watch the encounter live on Sky Sports 1 from 7pm

Republic of Ireland welcome the pizzazz of Brazil to Croke Park as the search for Steve Staunton's successor continues to rumble on. Don Givens remains as caretaker manager after Staunton parted ways with Republic of Ireland back in October. Staunton's replacement is expected to be named by the end of next week, with the Football Association of Ireland reportedly keen to appoint Giovanni Trapattoni. Ireland stood firm the last time these two sides met, holding Brazil to a 0-0 stalemate in 2004.

Worrying

Their current form is worrying, though, as they have not tasted victory in five outings. The fixture is Brazil's first since a 2-1 win over Uruguay in a 2010 World Cup qualifier in November. Givens has chosen to name his side in advance, with Damien Duff's return claiming most of the headlines. The Newcastle United winger has not featured for his country since March 2007 following a serious foot injury. A back four of Stephen Kelly, John O'Shea, Richard Dunne and Kevin Kilbane will sit in front of goalkeeper Shay Given.
Stars
Lee Carsley and Liam Miller start in the centre of midfield, while Aiden McGeady will occupy the left flank with Duff on the right. Captain Robbie Keane is to be partnered with Kevin Doyle up front. Milan stars Kaka and Alexandre Pato have pulled out of the Brazil squad because of injury, but coach Dunga still has the likes of Anderson and Robinho at his disposal.