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Republic of Ireland's Shane Long ruled out against Wales with injury

Shane Long was ruled out of the Republic of Ireland's winner-takes-all World Cup qualifying clash with Wales after injury robbed manager Martin O'Neill of another striking option.

The Southampton frontman missed out with a hip problem, joining Jonathan Walters on the sidelines as he, Wes Hoolahan and Callum O'Dowda were replaced by Robbie Brady and James McClean, on their return from suspension, and Harry Arter.

Wales boss Chris Coleman made only one change to the side which won 1-0 in Georgia on Friday evening with Hal Robson-Kanu replacing Sam Vokes up front for the crunch Group D clash.