Shane Long’s absence leaves a gaping hole in the Irish attack for the Estonia games next month, but Roy Hodgson has backed club teammate Simon Cox to fill the gap.
News of Long’s injury came as a depressing blow to everyone in this country, but ‘Woy’ Hodgson is relieved he’s only out for six weeks.
As a result of an absolutely shocking challenge from the detestable Alan Hutton at the weekend, Long has been sidelined for the next month and a half and will miss both of Ireland’s play-off games with Estonia next month, thus reducing Ireland’s already limited striking options in the process.
While followers of the Boys in Green stick pins into Alan Hutton voodoo dolls and look towards the play-offs with a degree of trepidation following news of Long’s absence, Roy Hodgson is delighted that he’ll be back in time for Christmas, having originally feared a much worse prognosis.
“I was a bit relieved although six weeks is still a lot. It means he will still possibly miss six games,” said Hodgson.
“You don’t take the situation lightly – but we know it could have been a lot worse.
“The ideal scenario would have been no injury at all but, if there has got to be one, at least it’s not a serious break or ligament damage.”
Hodgson was sympathetic with Ireland’s plight ahead of the Estonia games next month, but although Long’s absence and that of Kevin Doyle for the first leg and potentially Robbie Keane leaves a massive gap, Hodgson is confident that Simon Cox can, eh, fill a hole in the Irish attack.
“It is a blow for them and a big blow to Shane who is a very patriotic Irishman who was looking forward to helping his country get to the European finals,” Hodgson added.
“But it looks like they can fill the gap and maybe Simon Cox can help them.”
Thanks for the support Roy, but less of that potty mouth in future please.
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