The Republic of Ireland look likely to be without a second first-team regular for next month's Euro 2016 qualifier against Scotland after Glenn Whelan was ruled out for up to six weeks with a fractured leg.
Martin O'Neill was already planning without Wes Hoolahan for his return to Celtic Park and now the manager will have to identify a replacement for the team's central-midfield lynchpin.Whelan sustained the injury during Ireland's 1-1 draw against Germany in Gelsenkirchen.
Mark Hughes, the Stoke manager, said: "He's been playing really well of late, but we'll get him back as soon as we can. As for Ireland, knowing Glenn he'll try and make himself available, but my feeling is the game will be too soon for him."
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