Team News: Shane Long chosen to partner Robbie Keane for Republic of Ireland

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has picked Shane Long over Jonathan Walters to start up front against Sweden tomorrow.

The vital World Cup qualifier will see Long partner captain Robbie Keane in attack, while Paul Green has been chosen ahead of Wigan Athletic's James McCarthy in midfield.

Meanwhile, the Italian boss has opted to stick with Millwall goalkeeper David Forde, who has been handed his first competitive start for Friday's encounter.

Aston Villa's Ciaran Clark has also been handed a starting spot in Trapattoni's lineup.

Ireland starting XI: Forde; Coleman, O'Shea, Clark, Wilson; Brady, Whelan, Green, McClean; Keane, Long