Hodgson says decision to call up Long is correct

WEST BROM manager Roy Hodgson diffused a potential club versus country row by insisting crocked striker Shane Long’s inclusion in the Republic of Ireland Euro 2012 play-off squad is “the correct decision”.

Albion’s medical staff believe Long will be sidelined for six weeks with the knee injury suffered in a challenge by Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton last weekend.

But Republic boss Giovanni Trapattoni has named Long in the squad to face Estonia, even though the first leg is only two weeks away.