ROVERS midfielder Keith Treacy will lead out the Republic of Ireland under 21 side on Tuesday evening.

The 19-year-old, who made his league debut for Rovers in their 3-2 win over Everton at the weekend, will captain the under 21 side for the first time when they take on Austria in an international friendly in Vienna.

"I have played for Ireland at every level except senior but I have never captained a team," Treacy told www.fai.ie. "So to be given the opportunity to captain the Under-21s is a massive honour.

"It was a big surprise to me when Don asked me to captain the team but obviously I'm delighted to be given that responsibility."

His manager Don Givens had no qualms about giving Keith the captain's armband: "I have asked Keith to captain the side on Tuesday and I hope that acts as an incentive to him.

"He's a very talented player and I hope that he can lead by example on the pitch."

Treacy is one of three Rovers players in Don Given's squad for this match, Alan Judge is included once more, whilst Josh O'Keefe will be hopeful of making his debut after his surprise call.

Eddie Nolan was called up initially but has subsequently pulled out due to injury.