Injuries mount for Irish as Shane Long is their only fit striker
Saturday 26 March 2016 21:43, UK
Shane Long is the Republic of Ireland's only fit striker as their injury list lengthens following Friday's 1-0 friendly win over Switzerland.
After captain Robbie Keane missed the match in Dublin with a knee problem, Kevin Doyle has had surgery to repair a significant gash he suffered in the first half.
Jonathan Walters and Daryl Murphy have also returned to Stoke and Ipswich after being ruled out of Tuesday's friendly with Slovakia.
Walters was absent for the meeting with the Swiss in Dublin while Murphy went to come off with a tight calf after coming on as a replacement for Doyle.
That leaves Long as Martin O'Neill's only natural option up front for the game with the Slovakians at the Aviva Stadium.
A spokesman said: "Jonathan Walters, Daryl Murphy, and Kevin Doyle will be unavailable for the second of two March games following on from last Friday's 1-0 win over Switzerland.
"Murphy and Doyle both picked up injuries in that game, while Walters was not risked. Murphy and Walters have now returned to their clubs for assessment and management of injuries.
"Doyle will remain with the Ireland squad for ongoing medical management following surgery on a shin injury sustained in the first half of the Switzerland game."
