Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni is ready to start tonight's crucial World Cup qualifier against Cyprus with Manchester United youngster Darron Gibson in midfield.

Gibson, 20, was not even in the initial squad when it was announced, but impressed the Italian so much in the 'B' team fixture against Nottingham Forest last Thursday he was handed a late call-up.

Trapattoni said: "In international football, teams score goals from high balls.

"The first reason is his [Gibson's] height, the second is he plays with confidence.

"He doesn't play very often, but he plays for Manchester United, and Manchester United is a very important team.

"He is confident on the ball. He plays the easy ball and he looks before the ball comes. For me, that is a good quality.