6 changes for China friendly

Kerr had revealed that he wanted some fringe players to gain mauch needed experience in tonight's game, and hands in-form Championship duo Paddy Kenny (Sheffield United) and Steven Elliot (Sunderland) starts. Elliot will partner Robbie Keane up front for his 2nd cap while Kenny earns his 5th.

Hearts defender Alan Maybury and Man City’s Richard Dunne replace Stephen Carr and Andy O’Brien in defence, while Graham Kavanagh and Andy Reid, who was a surprise omission from the side that disappointingly drew with Israel at the weekend take over from Roy Keane and Steve Finnan.

Republic of Ireland: Paddy Kenny, Alan Maybury, Kenny Cunningham, Richard Dunne, John O’Shea, Graham Kavanagh, Andy Reid, Kevin Kilbane, Damien Duff, Robbie Keane, Stephen Elliott.