Niall Quinn has been forced to withdraw from the Republic of Ireland squad for the two World Cup qualifiers against Cyprus on March 24th and Andorra four days later.
Within 24 hours of being named by Mick McCarthy for the trips to Nicosia and Barcelona, the Sunderland striker has had to rule himself out because of a persistent back injury.
When he announced his squad yesterday, McCarthy was aware there was a doubt about Quinn’s fitness. The Irish manager spoke this morning with Sunderland boss Peter Reid, who explained Quinn who be out of action for the next four weeks.
McCarthy has yet to call up a replacement. Quinn’s absence means Tottenham striker cum defender Gary Doherty may partner Robbie Keane up front for Ireland.