21/03/2005: Israel coach Avraham Grant has named a 23-man squad to host the Republic of Ireland and France in World Cup qualifying group four on Saturday and Wednesday week respectively.
A decision after the Euro 2004 qualifying campaign to drop the ageing but popular Eyal Berkovic divided the nation and many supporters believe Grant has frozen out the 33-year-old.
Nevertheless, his blooding of youngsters is already reaping rewards. Israel sit alongside their next two opponents at the top of the group standings with eight points.
Indeed, Racing Santander youngster Yosi Benayoun has made a telling contribution to the campaign, scoring twice to force a 2-2 draw with Switzerland and once in the 2-1 win over Cyprus. Grant will look for more of the same against Ireland on Saturday should the attacking midfielder shake off a minor knee complaint.
There are few, if any, surprises in the manager's selection and all but five of the 23 ply their trade in the Israeli league. Irish fans will be familiar with defender Tal Ben-haim who plays for Premiership side Bolton Wanderers.
Klemi Sabban caught the eye marking Thierry Henry during the 0-0 draw in Paris and should start again in defence alonside Ben-haim, Arik Benado, Shimon Gershon and Adoram Keysi.
Benayoun will look to maintain his scoring record and is expected to line out in a four-man midfield alongside Maccabi Haifa duo Wallid Badir and Idan Tal with either Omri Afek of Salamanca or Avi Nimni on the right.
Striker Pini Ballili of Turkish side Keysrispor is likely to lead the attack in an 5-4-1 formation.
Brian Kerr’s Republic of Ireland squad arrive in Dublin tomorrow for training ahead of their departing for Tel-Aviv on Wednesday.
Sheffiled United’s Alan Quinn withdrew yesterday after limping out of his club's 2-1 win over Burnley. Blackburn’s Steven Reid and Rory Delap of Southampton are on standby.
