Martin O’Neill names Ireland XI to face Austria and Glenn Whelan is captain

Ireland could have one foot in Russia by the end of Sunday.

The Republic entertain Austria at the Aviva at 5pm with Serbia and Wales meeting later in the day. The right results could see Martin O'Neill's side sitting very, very pretty. The game with Austria is the last international encounter until September and, with four games to play in Autumn, it could prove crucial in Ireland's final qualifying standing.

• Georgia v Ireland (September 2)
• Ireland v Serbia (September 5)
• Ireland v Moldova (October 6)
• Wales v Ireland (October 9)

So the Irish have readied for the challenge with a strong line-up to face Austria. Kevin Long keeps his place after impressing against Uruguay at centre back whilst James McClean and Robbie Brady take up the flanks. The bad news is that Wes Hoolahan isn't starting - which means there's room for Whelan, who is also captain. https://twitter.com/FAIreland/status/873914136396222465 Harry Arter has been starring for his country when given the chance, as has Cyrus Christie. Darren Randolph will breathe a sigh of relief having kept the goalkeeper jersey ahead of Keiren Westwood. On the bench, there are decent attacking options too. https://twitter.com/FAIreland/status/873914874052702208