SEAN ST LEDGER has been ruled out of Ireland’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Germany and the Faroe Islands.
The centre-half pulled up with a hamstring injury during Leicester City’s 2-0 win against Bristol City and was described by manager Giovanni Trapattoni as “without chance” of making either match following the squad’s first training session in Malahide this morning.
Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clark has been called up and is expected to join the squad later today.
Trapattoni’s injury headache is set to get worse before it gets better with Glenn Whelan all but certain to miss Friday evening’s game in Dublin and a major doubt for the trip to Torshavn next week. The midfielder was forced off after just 20 minutes of Stoke City’s scoreless draw against Liverpool yesterday and is due to undergo a scan in Dublin today.
Although Trapattoni initially gave Whelan a 10% chance of featuring, the Italian explained he would not be risked if there are any doubts about his fitness and conceded that he is likely to return to his club.
“I said to him to be careful because the hamstring, this muscle is very dangerous,” Trapattoni said. “He answered me [and said ] ‘It’s ok, I have been running for two days. I will be ready for our game.’ After 20 minutes, he went out.
“I don’t want to run the risk.”
Trapattoni must also wait on Sunderland winger James McClean who is due to have a scan on a hip injury. Jonathan Walters took no part in training to allow him to rest following his involvement with Stoke on Sunday. Aiden McGeady and Robbie Keane are both expected to join up with the squad later today.
