Monday 9 October 2017 20:06, UK
Shane Long has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland's World Cup Qualifier with Wales due to a hip injury, Sky sources understand.
The news comes as a serious blow for the Republic, who must beat Wales in Monday night's Group D clash, live on Sky Sports, in order to reach the play-offs for the finals in Russia.
Irish boss Martin O'Neill could now opt to start Daryl Murphy against Wales after the Nottingham Forest striker scored both goals in the 2-0 win over Moldova on Friday night.
O'Neill is already without Burnley striker Jon Walters, who has been missing with a knee injury, but has Preston forward Sean Maguire, who made his international debut against Moldova, and Aston Villa striker Scott Hogan as options.
A win for either team will guarantee a November play-off at their opponents' expense and could yield an automatic qualifying spot if Group D leaders Serbia falter in their last game at home to Georgia.
For Wales, a draw at Cardiff City Stadium would be enough to finish above Ireland in the table - but not necessarily enough to nail a play-off place, with Croatia also in contention.
