David Kerslake will take charge of the Reds on Thursday

Nottingham Forest will put aside their Championship struggles when they meet the Republic of Ireland in a friendly in Dublin on Thursday.

The Reds have been asked to take part in the challenge match against a group of Irish players on the fringe of the senior international squad.

With Colin Calderwood on a fact-finding trip to China, the Reds will be managed by coach David Kerslake.

He told BBC Radio Nottingham: "It's an honour and a game we probably need."

Live: BBC Radio Nottingham commentary

Forest's chief executive Mark Arthur said the club were pleased to be invited to play the international side.

"As a club we've always had a really good relationship with Ireland.

"Numerous Irish players have played for us over the years and it's something we're quite looking forward to," he said.