Kelly and Branagan Republic of Ireland manager, Mick McCarthy, yesterday decided to widen his options for the forthcoming European championship qualifying matches by adding two new players to his squad.

Gary Kelly of Leeds United is recalled after a long lay-off through injury while goalkeeper Keith Branagan is brought in as additional cover.

UEFA have announced meanwhile that for the second successive year they have appointed FAI general secretary Bernard O'Byrne as the venue director at Old Trafford for Manchester United's forthcoming Champions League matches.