- Paul Fennessy reports from Versailles
JON WALTERS COULD be in contention to play against France on Sunday, after taking part in Ireland training at their base in Versailles today.
The Stoke player, who was key to Ireland’s qualification with five goals, has not played since being substituted in the second half of the team’s opening Euro 2016 game against Sweden.
Meanwhile, the outlook appears less promising for full-back Stephen Ward, who was absent from today’s session.
Speaking at a press conference today, assistant boss Roy Keane wasn’t ruling either player out for Sunday’s encounter: “Walters did a bit more (in training) today,” he said.
Keane also explained that there were “questions” over Ward’s fitness, adding that it would be “quite difficult” to leave out those who started against Italy for the France game on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Martin O’Neill indicated both players were a doubt in his press conference yesterday, saying: “Stephen Ward picked up an injury, his ankle has blown up. He’s desperate to play obviously. He played very well last night, continuing on. So we’ll have a look at him.
“Jon Walters is trying to make an attempt to get fit as well. He’s been a major part of our campaign. It’d be nice to have him in contention if possible.”
Ward’s absence would leave Ireland with a couple of alternatives at left-back. Robbie Brady could revert back to the role having played the last two matches in midfield, while Cyrus Christie, Ciaran Clark and John O’Shea also all have experience in the position if O’Neill is reluctant to move back the Norwich star from midfield.
More to follow
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