Ireland manager Brian McEniff has named his 27-man panel for next month's International Rules series in Australia. It is a stronger panel than expected with a number of Kerry players included despite their unavailability for the preparatory training sessions. They have attended training since the county was defeated in the All-Ireland semi-final by Meath over a fortnight ago.

There are 10 newcomers to the international scene and seven players who have figured in every series since the resumption three years ago. According to McEniff it is the strongest panel available with the exception of Meath pair John McDermott and Trevor Giles who have declined to travel.

Ollie Murphy, the Meath corner forward on course for the footballer-of-the-year accolade, similarly declined to become involved but his loss is hard to quantify as he has yet to play the international game. Kildare's Glenn Ryan, who has long experience at this level, was not considered because of injury.

Nine players are included in the panel for the first time: Graham Canty, Coman Goggins, Eamonn O'Hara, Francie Grehan, Cormac McAnallen, Tadgh Kennelly, Brendan Jer O'Sullivan, Mike Frank Russell and John Crowley. Darragh ╙ SΘ was selected for last year's panel but was one of the Kerry players who did not appear in the wake of last year's All-Ireland final, the replay of which took place the day before the first Test.

O'Hara was a vital member of the Sligo side that defeated Kildare in the All-Ireland qualifiers. His forceful running will be well suited to the international game. Roscommon's Francie Grehan was one of the best centre backs in this year's championship whereas Cormac McAnallen from Tyrone was an important component in his side's march to an Ulster title. His athleticism and intelligence on the ball will be assets for Ireland.

The Kerry players are valuable additions. In particular, Seβmus Moynihan's presence will be an immense advantage. Although not as dominant as last year, he has had a fine season and excels at International Rules. During a memorable series in Australia two years ago on a high-performing team, he was selected as Ireland's player of the series. John Crowley had a super championship for Kerry. His physique and height give him more presence than an average corner forward and his finishing skills will be vital as Ireland try to increase their goal-scoring potential.

Two players are back for the first time since the first resumed series in 1998. Donegal's Brendan Devenney was intermittently impressive that year but Cavan midfielder Dermot McCabe was tremendously effective when switched to full forward, top scoring in the first Test that year and attracting the attention of Australian Rules clubs.

There are a number of experienced replacements named. They will only be considered if any of the selected party is unable to travel. Everyone on the standby list has been asked to have his passport ready. Of those on the list, a number can be disappointed. Offaly's Finbar Cullen, Kerry goalkeeper Declan O'Keeffe and Jarlath Fallon of Galway have all given great service in previous series whereas Meath's Evan Kelly has the explosive running and point-kicking accuracy that would be ideal for the international game.