Carr misses out as Leeds pair get nod

Mick McCarthy, the Republic of Ireland manager, insists full-backs Gary Kelly and Ian Harte can help break down any resistance offered by World Cup lightweights Andorra tonight despite their Premiership and Champions League exertions with Leeds United.

The Elland Road pair have made more than 80 appearances between them for David O'Leary's side this season - and it would have been more but for Kelly needing an operation on a calf muscle in February which sidelined him for six weeks.

McCarthy has left out Leeds's £13million striker Robbie Keane and Wimbledon's Kenny Cunningham, to save them the risk of second bookings that would incur suspensions for the game with Portugal in June.

But he was determined to keep the full-back partnership intact. With Tottenham's Stephen Carr available again after a hernia operation, McCarthy could have also rested Kelly, who reported fit for the squad despite an ankle knock that still required treatment on Monday.

However, the Republic boss said: "They have played a lot of games but I have no concerns about them whatsoever. They are flying. And that's because they are doing so well and enjoying it.

"Tiredness is not a problem for young, fit guys like these when you are battling for success in competitions rather than just playing out the season in mid-table.

"They've both got a great attitude and love playing for their country. I think sometimes managers put negative thoughts about being leg-weary into players' heads. It is just not the case with these two.

"Gary has delighted me with his attitude. We knew only on Monday that he would be fit and with a top-class international like Stevie Carr around again I could have rested him, but I've made enough changes for this game already."

Coventry defender Gary Breen looks like winning his fitness battle to skip-per the Irish in place of the injured Roy Keane after he hurt an arm in training.

Former Watford star David Connolly, in for Robbie Keane, needs to make an impact to put himself in the shop window after a frustrating season at Feyenoord.