John O'Shea missed Saturday's home draw against Germany

Republic of Ireland v Cyprus
Croke Park
Wednesday, 17 October
Kick-off: 1930 BST
Coverage on BBC Radio 5live & the BBC Sport website

John O'Shea's prospects of returning to the Republic of Ireland side against Cyprus on Wednesday have improved.

O'Shea and Darren Potter missed Saturday's Euro 2008 draw against Germany but both trained on Monday.

Paul McShane is available again for the Croke Park game after suspension and is likely to replace banned Richard Dunne.

Lee Carsley is also banned but Stephen Hunt is available while Andy Reid, impressive against Germany, should play despite his lingering ankle injury.

Reid, nevertheless, missed Monday morning's training session in Malahide as a precaution.

Shane Long pulled out of the Republic squad on Sunday because of a groin strain sustained after he came on as a late substitute against Germany.

"I have good options in defence if Josh (John O'Shea) is available and Paul McShane is also there," said Republic manager Steve Staunton on Monday.

"Joey O'Brien also proved on Saturday that he can play in that position."

606: DEBATE Give your thoughts on Steve Staunton's Republic reign to date

O'Shea was ruled out of the Germany game because of a leg injury while Potter missed the match because of a groin strain but both players are hoping to be given the all-clear for Wednesday's game.

Dunne and Carsley both picked up their second yellow cards of the current Euro 2008 qualifiers in Saturday's game.

Like McShane, Hunt missed the draw against Germany because of suspension.

While Hunt is available again, Liam Miller is being tipped to be given the nod to fill in for Carsley.