Doyle doubts Duff return

Damien Duff: Fulham winger is unlikely to return for Republic of Ireland, according to Kevin Doyle

Kevin Doyle does not expect Damien Duff to come back into the Republic of Ireland fold for next month's World Cup qualifier against Germany.

Fulham winger Duff only recently retired from international football after winning his 100th cap at Euro 2012, but coach Giovanni Trapattoni and his assistant Marco Tardelli are keen to persuade the 32-year-old to do a U-turn.

Trapattoni is hoping to speak to Duff after Tuesday's friendly against Oman at Craven Cottage, but striker Doyle doubts his former team-mate will be convinced.

"I think from what I have heard Duffers is well and truly in the retired camp," Doyle said with a smile. "I think he wants to be left alone for a while."

Kelly hope

Trapattoni has made 10 changes to his line-up for the match against Oman, with David Meyler and Robbie Brady both making their first appearances for their country.

A number of squad players will also get their chance to show Trapattoni that they can be relied upon should they be required for next month's qualifier against Germany.

Stephen Kelly will start alongside Paul McShane in central defence having been left out of the team for the 2-1 win in Kazakhstan and the Fulham stopper hopes to impress Trapattoni on his 31st outing for his country.

"Hopefully we will get a win and for me it will be a chance to show the manager what I can do," Kelly said.

"Whenever I have been called upon for the qualifiers I have given it my all so I'm glad I'll get a chance to remind the manager what I can do.

"The pressure was on us against Kazakhstan so hopefully there won't be as much pressure for the Oman game and for me it helps that it's at a ground I'm obviously familiar with."