Obafemi to lead the line against Norway

Michael Obafemi has been tasked to lead the line for Ireland as they welcome Norway to the Aviva Stadium this evening, kick-off 7:45pm.

The Swansea City striker will play alongside Callum Robinson for this international friendly.

Manager Stephen Kenny has named the same back three from the last outing, against Armenia in October, with captain John Egan marshalling the defence alongside Nathan Collins and Dara O'Shea.

Matt Doherty and Callum O'Dowda are set to play in a wing-back role on the right and left flank respectively, while Gavin Bazunu remains in goal.

Josh Cullen, Alan Browne and Jayson Molumby start in midfield.

Will Smallbone and Evan Ferguson could be in line to make their senior international debuts as both players start the game from the bench.

Rep of Ireland: Bazanu, Doherty, O'Shea, Egan, Cullen, Robinson, Browne, Obafemi, Collins, Molumby, O’Dowda.

Subs: Kelleher, Travers, Coleman, Brady, McClean, Hendrick, Smallbone, McGrath, Sykes, Ogbene, Scales, Lenihan, Ferguson.

Watch the Republic of Ireland v Norway live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player on Thursday from 7pm with live radio commentary on RTÉ Radio 1 Extra and follow a live blog on RTÉ.ie/sport and RTÉ News app