Shane Duffy eases play-off fears as he gives positive update on injury that forced him off in Everton draw

Brighton’s Shane Duffy grasps his injured groin

Independent.ie Newsdesk

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill will be anxiously awaiting news on the groin injury suffered by Shane Duffy today.

The talismanic defender, who spearheaded Ireland's defensive effort in their pivotal 1-0 win over Wales last Monday, was forced off the field today while impressing again for Brighton against his former club Everton in their 1-1 draw.

"I'm all right, a bit sore at the minute," Duffy told theargus.co.uk after the match.

"Ill get scanned in the morning and see how it is but it feels not too bad.

"It was my groin. I was running back and I just felt it but hopefully I am not too bad.

"It was like a pop or a shot feeling but it has calmed down now.

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"I've iced it and had treatment and it feels a little bit better but I'll see tomorrow."

Duffy has become a hugely important figure in the heart of the Irish defence.

The severity of the injury is unknown at this stage but it is unwelcome news for O'Neill who is planning for Ireland's World Cup play-off next month.

Former Ireland international Kevin Kilbane is concerned. He tweeted: "I don’t like the look of that Shane Duffy injury!"

Elsewhere, Preston striker Seanie Maguire was forced off in his side's 2-2 draw with Fulham at Craven Cottage after 30 minutes, five minutes after he had scored his third goal for the club.

Preston boss Alex Neill afterwards said: "Sean felt his hamstring so we are just hoping that’s not serious because he’s a big player for us."