Duff back but three out for Republic

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni must do without three key squad members for next week’s World Cup qualifier against Cyprus, but the Italian has welcomed back the fit-again Damien Duff.

Newcastle winger Duff has been recalled to Trapattoni’s 21-man party after missing last month’s victory over Georgia and the draw with Montenegro as he struggled to shake off a knee complaint but was a dead-cert to return as soon as he was fit.