Ireland dealt a huge blow ahead of tonight's game in Cardiff as Shane Long is ruled out

The Southampton striker is suffering from a hip injury and will miss the game with Ireland needing a win to secure a World Cup play-off.

He played for 82 minutes in the 2-0 win over Moldova on Friday and trained last night but has since been ruled out.

Daryl Murphy, who scored both goals in Friday's win, will most likely start up front with former Cork City striker Seanie Maguire or Aston Villa's Scott Hogan likely to see game time.

Long has not scored for club or country since February but despite his goal drought, he was viewed as pivotal to our chances of beating Chris Coleman's side. His last international goal came in the 3-1 won over Moldova in Chisinau a year ago today.

With Jon Walters also out injured and Kevin Doyle forced into retirement, Ireland's forward reserves are significantly depleted for our most important game since last year's European Championships.

More to follow