Republic call up Pearce

Reading defender Alex Pearce has been drafted into the Republic of Ireland squad for next month's friendly against Poland.

The 24-year-old has received a late call-up after manager Giovanni Trapattoni agreed to FC Toronto's request for Darren O'Dea to be allowed to remain with them for their pre-season preparations.

Pearce has one senior cap to date, scoring on his debut in a 4-1 victory over Oman at Craven Cottage in September last year.

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