Intro:

Sunderland winger James McClean is set to make his first start for Ireland as they continue their preparations for Euro 2012 with a friendly against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Saturday (26th May).

Meanwhile striker Robbie Keane says the atmosphere leading into the Euros surpasses that during the 2002 World Cup - Ireland's last appearance at a major tournament.

Script:

After a 24 year absence from the European Championships, Ireland are preparing for their re-entry amongst the continent's elite.

Giovanni Trapattoni's side will play a friendly match against Bosnia-Herzegovina in Dublin on Saturday as part of their tune up for the tournament in Poland and Ukraine.

Sunderland forward James McClean will make his first start for Ireland, with Keiren Westwood taking over from Shay Given in goal - the Aston Villa goal keeper ruled out with a knee injury.

LA Galaxy striker Robbie Keane will try and add to his all-time record of 53 goals for his country alongside Kevin Doyle.

Keane says excitement building up to the tournament has reached fever pitch back home.

SOUNDBITE: (English), Robbie Keane:

"Yeah I think, certainly the atmosphere. I can't remember the atmosphere like this certainly for a long, long time. I think 2002 was great but I don't remember the same kind of feeling I think around the country. And there is certainly now - if you ask me to name one song in 2002 I don't think I could. I think there is about 100 songs now that everybody knows so that's like the way it was years ago in '88 and 1990 so it's certainly the same feeling it has been a number of years ago."

Ireland kick off their Euro 2012 campaign against Croatia on June 10th.