Shane Long is out of tonight’s game between Ireland and Wales in Cardiff.

The news will come as a huge blow to Ireland’s chances. The Southampton striker has been finding it difficult to score, but his phenomenal work rate and pace present a huge problem for any defence.

Long has been ruled out as a result of a hip injury. His absence increases the likelihood that Wes Hoolahan will start the game, with Ireland’s two-goal hero against Moldova, Daryl Murphy, upfront.

It also increases the likelihood that we will see game time being given to either Scott Hogan or Sean Maguire – who made his debut in the final ten minutes of the win over Moldova.

That we will miss Long tonight is certain. Whether the eleven men who go out on the pitch can deliver the required win remains an open question.

Here at Hot Press central, we have our fingers crossed...