O’Shea and Long ruled out of Russia vs. Ireland qualifier, Given still in doubt

The Republic of Ireland defender John O’Shea will not be able to play against Russia in the Euro 2012 qualifier on Tuesday, the official website of the Football Association of Ireland reported.

Following medical examination O’Shea was declared unfit to take part in the game, as he was suffering from a calf and hip strain and should return to his club Sunderland later this evening. Shane Long’s calf injury means he will also miss the game.

The fitness of Ireland’s goalkeeper Shay Given is also in question, according to the Irish Times.

Given has been experiencing back problems since the match of English Premier League against Wolverhampton (0:0). The player should now pass a medical, after which the team’s doctor will decide on his fitness.