Republic’s wings clipped for Azzuri showdown

THE Republic of Ireland are likely to have to face Italy in Bari on Wednesday without their two first-choice wingers.

Having already lost Damien Duff to a thigh injury before Saturday’s draw with Bulgaria, manager Giovanni Trapattoni yesterday reported that Aiden McGeady is now struggling with an injured knee.

The Celtic man had gone into Saturday’s game nursing a bruised foot and, although he played 90 minutes, he was replaced at the very end by Andy Keogh. The knock to McGeady’s knee required ice treatment immediately after the game and yesterday he missed training at Gannon Park, Malahide.