Rob Elliot 'could make Republic of Ireland debut against England'

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni is reportedly considering handing Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot his international debut.

The Italian boss is thought to have sent scouts to watch the 27-year-old, who has been promoted to the Magpies' number one spot due to Tim Krul's spell on the sidelines with a dislocated shoulder.

It is understood that Elliot will have to prove his worth in Newcastle's remaining three games in order to warrant a place in the Ireland squad for a friendly against England this month, according to the Daily Mail.

Trapattoni's current number one is Millwall goalkeeper David Forde.