McClean left out of Ireland squad for Czech match

DUBLIN, Ireland (AP) — Sunderland forward James McClean has been left out of Ireland's squad for this month's friendly with the Czech Republic.

McClean has scored three goals in 11 club matches this season and was expected to get his first international appearance following FIFA clearance for him to switch from Northern Ireland to Ireland.

Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni has said he will remain loyal to the men who secured qualification for the European Championship, despite watching the 22-year-old McClean on several occasions.

Darron Gibson was included in the 24-man squad following his January move from Manchester United to Everton, while captain Robbie Keane, buoyed by his form on loan at Aston Villa, leads a pool of five strikers for the match in Dublin on Feb. 29.

"This game is the beginning of our Euro 2012 preparations," Trapattoni said. "As we face this fixture, it is important for our players to remember the attitude and performance that brought us qualification."

At Euro 2012, Ireland is in Group C along with defending champion Spain, Italy and Croatia.

"The Czech Republic are a strong team, and their system is similar to Croatia and Spain," Trapattoni said. "This game is vital in helping us choose our 23-player squad for May. We will continue to monitor our players afterwards, and keep a close eye on their fitness in the coming months."