Jon Walters was the only Irish player that sat out their Wednesday training session at Versailles.
The Stoke City forward is struggling with an Achilles’ injury but, on a slight note of optimism, he remains in France.
Martin O’Neill has already listed Walters as ‘highly doubtful’ to make Saturday’s game against Belgium. Speaking to the press today, his update was an update without ever really updating the current situation:
O'Neill on Jon Walters making the Belgium game, 'He's going to be struggling…if the game was tomorrow he wouldn't make it.'
— Dion Fanning (@dionfanning) June 15, 2016
In all likelihood, Walters will miss out on the starting XI but he may be able to feature off the bench if needed.
Speculation is ongoing as to who might step in and replace the 32-year-old.
Daryl Murphy may go up top, with Shane Long stepping out to the right-hand side of the diamond/midfield, depending on how Ireland line up. James McClean could also step in with Wes Hoolahan as a No.10 option, while Robbie Keane will be pressing for inclusion.
O’Neill was not giving much away but the Irish press corp are used to nothing else, or nothing more:
O'Neill asked who might replace Walters but won't name anyone – 'There might be some people in this room who are not our friends.'
— Dion Fanning (@dionfanning) June 15, 2016
Each day will find the Irish management giving non-committal answers on Walters. The fact that he remains in France offers some hope that he could be an option if his team is in need.
