Martin O’Neill admits that Seamus Coleman won’t take part in Ireland’s clash with Germany, but that the right back will be available for Poland.
The Republic are in action in the Aviva on Thursday night for the final home game of their qualification group but they will be without the services of one of their best players.
The Everton defender didn’t take part in training in Abbotstown on Wednesday morning having done his own sessions all week.
And the manager confirmed that he will not be available for the visit of the Germans.
“Seamus Coleman will not be playing in the game. He’s done very, very well. He was almost in contention for Everton but I think the week that he’s had will help him and he will be absolutely fine for Sunday.”
It means that either Cyrus Christie or David Meyler will be in line to replace Coleman in his full back slot and, with Christie having gotten the nod there last, you’d fancy the chances of the Derby man.
“I know who I’m going to play. You’ll have a fair idea who I’m going to play too. But if I just keep telling people what my team is, then I don’t have a plan. The Germans can just listen in here.
“If you put me on the spot, I’ll let you know in 20 minutes time. Secretly.”
There was good news however for the side as Wes Hoolahan returned to training with the squad and Robbie Keane joined up with the team having flown in from America.
The skipper responded to Roy Keane’s comments on Tuesday about Robbie breast-feeding in a light-hearted manner:
“He’s used to it, he’s got bigger tits than me,” he said.
The striker confirmed that he had only two hours in the hospital before departing for Ireland after his wife gave birth during the week but he’s back in Dublin and he’s ready.
On top of that, the manager confirmed that Everton midfielder Darron Gibson has made a recovery from a long-term injury and will be available for selection on Thursday.
“He is available for selection, which is good news for us. He’s actually doing fine. I thought a few weeks ago that he was further behind in his work but it was good to see him getting onto the bench for Everton. Since he’s been here, I’ve had a little chat with him, he is feeling fine. He has a little twinge in his knee but he’ll be in the squad anyway.”
