Midfielder Darron Gibson has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria in Sofia on Saturday due to a groin strain.
The Manchester United midfielder picked up the injury during the final Premier League game of the season, in which he scored.
As a consequence, the Ulsterman sat out Ireland’s friendly last Friday against Nigeria at Craven Cottage in London.
Stoke midfielder Glenn Whelan left the training ground on Tuesday with his ankle heavily strapped and that is another concern for boss Giovanni Trapattoni.
Irish captain Robbie Keane sat out training with a foot problem, but Trapattoni is certain he will be fit for the weekend.