Republic of Ireland have been dealt a huge blow after striker Shane Long was ruled out of their crucial World Cup qualifier against Wales.

The news was confirmed earlier today by the Republic of Ireland. It was further revealed that Long will miss the Group D clash at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff with a hip injury.

The 30-year-old Southampton star had featured for over 80 minutes of the team’s 2-0 home win over Moldova on Friday.

With Long and Walters out for the Republic of Ireland,  Nottingham Forest striker Daryl Murphy is set to start again after scoring a brace against Moldova.

Republic of Ireland will secure a playoff spot at least with a win over home nations rival Wales.