The key talking points ahead of the Republic of Ireland’s clash with Ukraine

Ireland lost 1-0 to Oleksandr Petrakov’s men in Dublin.

The Republic of Ireland go in search of Nations League victory against Ukraine on Tuesday evening having belatedly opened their account with a win over Scotland.

When the sides met in Dublin last Wednesday night, substitute Viktor Tsygankov’s goal proved decisive for Ukraine, although Stephen Kenny’s men, who had also lost 1-0 in Armenia four days previously, responded superbly to the setback with a 3-0 victory over the Scots at the weekend.

Here, the PA news agency takes a look at some of the talking points surrounding the return in the Polish city of Lodz.

Back to the future

Republic of Ireland defender Shane Duffy is suspended for the game in Lodz (Niall Carson/PA)

Jimmy, Jimmy

McClean’s return to the Ireland starting line-up on Saturday brought not only his trademark vim and vigour into the mix, but a vast improvement in the quality of Ireland’s set-pieces. The 33-year-old Wigan man’s delivery added devil to an area in which Ireland are traditionally strong – his corner was headed back across goal by Duffy for Browne to open the scoring against Scotland – and highlighted what they had been missing in the previous two games.

They think it’s all Oba

Michael Obafemi chose his first senior start for his country to announce himself on the international stage in style with a superb pass to set up a goal for Troy Parrott and a stunning strike of his own against the Scots. However, he tweaked a groin soon after scoring and hobbled off. Despite travelling to Poland, he is unlikely to figure and Kenny will have to find a new talisman.

Three-sy does it

Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny and Scotland counterpart Steve Clarke embrace after the game at the Aviva Stadium (Brian Lawless/PA)

World Cup woe

Ukraine manager Oleksandr Petrakov could shuffle is pack once again — Ukraine manager Oleksandr Petrakov could shuffle his pack once again (Brian Lawless/PA)