No Shane Long-shot for play-off clash - Hodgson

03 November 2011 17:46

West Brom manager Roy Hodgson on Thursday scotched talk injured striker Shane Long may be fit to return for Ireland's Euro 2012 play-off with Estonia.

Long suffered a knee injury last month following a rash tackle from Alan Hutton in the Baggies Premier League clash with Aston Villa.

Albion's medical staff believe Long will be sidelined for up to six weeks, and Hodgson is adamant there is no way the in-form striker can return for the Republic's play-off dates with Estonia on November 11 and 15.

Hodgson revealed Irish team medical staff had been in touch with the club, and said they would be welcome to assess Long's injury if required.

"Shane is not fit to play. The two doctors are in contact with each other and the Irish doctor knows that he is making good progress and we are working hard with him," he said.

"But he is way off being fit to play a football match.

"If they want to prove that by inviting him over and sending him back again, that's okay with me.

"But there is no way unfortunately he will be fit to play for us at the weekend or for Ireland.

"In fact, there is a lot of work to be done if he is going to be fit to play after the international break.

"It is going to take some time to heal. The initial suggestion was six weeks and Shane would like it to be quicker than that - but it certainly isn't going to be two weeks."

Source: AFP