Dunne: Ireland unlikely to return in near future

Manchester City captain Richard Dunne says his club team-mate Stephen Ireland is unlikely to play for his country again in the near future.

The midfielder's international exile is continuing this week as the Republic of Ireland prepare for upcoming World Cup Qualifiers against Bulgaria and Italy.

Dunne says Ireland, who hasn't played for his country since 2007, is wholly focused on his club football at the moment.

Ireland continue training this afternoon at their north Co Dublin base, with injury concern Aiden McGeady expected to take some part as he battles to recover from a foot injury.

Goalkeeper Shay Given may also play some part in the session after remaining at Manchester City for the past few days for treatment to a shoulder problem.