Liverpool defender Steve Finnan has decided to resume his international career and was last night named in a 22-man squad by coach Giovanni Trapattoni for the friendly against Norway in Oslo next Wednesday.

But Wigan Central defender Andy O'Brien has decided to stick by his decision to retire from the international game, while errant Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland has indicated that he is still not ready to again pull on the green shirt.

 

"I am delighted that Steve Finnan has decided, has agreed to return to the squad", said Trapattoni.  "He is an  experienced player and he still has a lot to offer the team".

 

Finnan capped 50 times by his country, last played for Ireland in the 2-2 draw with Wales in Cardiff in November of last year.  Trapattoni sees the Liverpool man's return after a "major bonus" for his World Cup qualifying campaign.

 

Ireland's decision to remain unavailable would surely test the patience of most international managers, but Trapattoni insisted his door remains open, "Stephen Ireland has told us that he is not yet ready to make himself available but may do so in the future.  As I have said before my door is always open".

 

O'Brien's decision to stay retired leaves the Italian short of central defenders, but he admitted Sunderland's Paul McShane would come into the reckoning for September's World Cup qualifiers.

"O'Brien told me he was unhappy with all the criticism he received after Ireland's 5-2 defeat by Cyprus in the Euro 2008 qualifiers in Nicosia two years ago", stated Trapattoni.

 

As well as the comeback of Finnan, Steve Reid, Shay Given, Andy Reid, Joey O'Brien and Kevin Kilbane all return to the squad.

 

Wednesday 13th of August 2008