PORTSMOUTH MIDFIELDER LIAM Lawrence has been ruled out of Ireland’s play-off games against Estonia.
The player had been a significant doubt as he failed to feature in his side’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest at the weekend after suffering an ankle injury.
And an FAI staement last night confirmed: “Liam Lawrence has been assessed by FAI medical staff and will now return to his club due to an ankle ligament injury.”
Meanwhile, Ireland are still sweating on the fitness of Newcastle striker Leon Best and Sunderland defender John O’Shea.
Best, who was only called into the squad on Thursday after Shane Long was all but ruled out of the game, went off injured during Newcastle’s match with Everton at the weekend.
There are doubts surrounding O’Shea also, after he missed Sunderland’s game against United on Saturday.
His club manager Steve Bruce indicated he was a significant doubt for the game, telling reporters (BBC):
“He might have a chance for the second one but certainly I would have thought the first game would come a little bit too quickly for him.”
Man United’s Darron Gibson is Ireland’s only other injury concern.
Who cares, we are going to lose anyway…. We may have a moral victory….
What’s a moral victory?
A moral victory is where you lose but play well
Trap has never lost a competitive match away from home. I would back Ireland to get a result away from home in this match. Johnny, you’ve been listening to too much Dunphy and gang. We have a great chance.
I hate so called “FANS” like Johnny…. Your glass always half empty??? Ireland have a great chance and I’ll be there in Estonia and in Aviva stadium cheering the boys on.
Prepare to lose