Martin O'Neill has been dealt a blow by the news playmaker Wes Hoolahan is out of the Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualifier against Wales.
The Norwich midfielder is facing several weeks on the sidelines after a scan confirmed the extent of the thigh injury he suffered half an hour into Saturday's 2-0 Championship win over Barnsley.
With Robbie Brady suspended and Harry Arter also ruled out by injury for Friday night's game in Dublin, Hoolahan's misfortune has left O'Neill's midfield resources severely depleted.
O'Neill said: 'He'll be out, Wes is out, definitely out.