Irelands Long ruled out of Euro qualifier

Published: 03 Sep 2011 - 15:30:29

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Irelands Long ruled out of Euro qualifier

Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long has been ruled out of his country's crucial Euro 2012 qualifier against Russia on Tuesday.

Long missed Ireland's 0-0 draw against Slovakia on Friday after suffering a calf strain in training and the West Brom star is now also sidelined for the trip to face Group B leaders Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium on Tuesday.

There was better news for Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni concerning captain Robbie Keane, who should be fit to start despite suffering a back injury against Slovakia, while Sunderland defender John O'Shea, who has a sore Achilles tendon, is also expected to be feature.

Trapattoni will have to make at least one change in Moscow with central defender Sean St Ledger suspended after picking up a second booking against the Slovakians and Darren O'Dea could come in.

Russia are two points clear at the top of the group after their 1-0 win over Macedonia with the Republic and Slovakia level in second on 14 points.