Giovanni Trapattoni to start Simon Cox alongside Robbie Keane?

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has reportedly opted to start Simon Cox alongside Robbie Keane for tonight's crucial Group C clash against Spain.

There have been questions over who the Italian could pick to lead the line after the 73-year-old decided not to reveal his starting lineup in yesterday's press conference, which is out of character for the former Bayern Munich manager.

While there were murmurs that Stoke City frontman Jonathan Walters could be given the nod, it appears that skipper Keane will be joined by Cox, who is admired by Trapattoni, according to Sky Sports News.

Ireland are expected to field a standard 4-4-2 formation as they attempt to get a result against the European holders following their dismal 3-2 defeat to Croatia on Sunday.