Hendrick set to return in time for qualifiers

Midfielder Jeff Hendrick, who was forced to withdraw from Martin O’Neill’s squad due to a dislocated shoulder, is expected to be available for selection for Ireland’s October qualifiers against Gibraltar and Germany.

Hendrick suffered the injury playing for Derby County in the weekend’s 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town but has been told by a specialist he will not require surgery.

“After undergoing a series of tests and visiting a specialist earlier this morning, it has been confirmed that Jeff Hendrick will not need to go under the knife in order to return to fitness,” said an official Derby County statement.

“He will instead work on a short rehabilitation with the Rams’ medical team at the training centre. It is expected that the player will be available for selection again within the month of September.”