Republic of Ireland BLOW! Striker Shane Long ruled out of Wales clash

Republic of Ireland have suffered a blow in the build-up to Monday night’s clash against Wales with news striker Shane Long has been ruled out with injury.

The Southampton striker hasn’t scored a goal for club or country since February, but is still an important member of Martin O’Neill’s side.

He played 83 minutes of Friday’s 2-0 victory over Moldova at the Aviva Stadium, but has been withdrawn from the match-day squad to face Wales with a hip injury.

Nottingham Forest striker Daryl Murphy appears set to take his place in O’Neill’s starting line-up after scoring both goals in the home win over Moldova

Ireland and Wales go head-to-head at the Cardiff City Stadium on Monday evening to keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup alive.

The winner of the game will at least guarantee a place in the play-offs, or could secure automatic qualification should Group D leaders Serbia lose to Georgia.