Trapattoni wants Gibson to shoot on sight
Giovanni Trapattoni has given midfielders Darron Gibson and Aiden McGeady license to shoot on sight as he plots the downfall of Macedonia tomorrow night.
The Republic of Ireland boss is expecting the Macedonians to get men behind the ball and invite his side to attempt to break them down with three vital Euro 2012 points at stake.
Explaining his decision to pair Glenn Whelan with Gibson rather than Paul Green in central midfield, Trapattoni revealed the Manchester United youngster’s ability to shoot from distance was a key factor.
He said: “I have seen many of Macedonia’s games and usually away from home, they play very deep.
“I have told Gibson to get on the ball and when he is on the ball, to shoot.
“The way they play, it is better for Gibson, who can control the ball quickly and shoot.
“Against opponents who are more technical and creative, Paul Green may be more suited because he is very aggressive.
“But in this game, we will have a lot of space until we get to the edge of the box, and I have told Gibson and Aiden McGeady as well to shoot whenever they can.
“It will be very difficult to work our way into the box, and shooting from outside the box is a good option for us. That is the reason why Gibson and not Paul Green is starting.”
That particular change was made at least through choice, a luxury Trapattoni has not been afforded in defence.
Three of the men who would have been certainties to start – Shay Given, John O’Shea and Sean St Ledger – are unavailable because of injury, and their replacements have limited experience, and none of it in competitive games.
Keeper Keiren Westwood has five caps, Central defender Darren O’Dea four and right-back Kevin Foley three, although Kevin Kilbane, who will make his 65th consecutive competitive start for his country, and Richard Dunne have 172 between them.
However, Trapattoni is confident the trio will not let their country down, while admitting Macedonia’s height at set-pieces is a worry.
He said: “I am afraid only that the opponents have five or six players over 1.90m. I am afraid about headers from corners and free-kicks.
“But I am only afraid of set-pieces, not in open play.”
Trapattoni does have skipper Robbie Keane available after a calf injury, but admits he may last only an hour.
He also confirmed that Wigan midfielder James McCarthy will be involved at some point, and hinted that it could be as a replacement for the striker, but in a withdrawn role.
