Injured Andrews may open door for Hendrick

Keith Andrews has been ruled out of Ireland’s friendly against Poland, increasing the prospect of a debut call-up for midfielder Jeff Hendrick.

Andrews suffered a thigh strain during Bolton Wanderers’ scoreless draw at Crystal Palace on Saturday, forcing him to be substituted 14 minutes from time.

Giovanni Trapattoni will today name his squad for the game against Poland on February 6, with Derby County’s rising star Hendrick tipped for promotion from the U21 fold. Trapattoni watched the 20-year-old for the second successive week on Saturday when he attended Pride Park for the 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest.