Duff could be fit for qualifiers

Damien Duff looks increasingly likely to play some part in the Republic of Ireland's final two World Cup qualifiers.

The Fulham winger was expected to be out for at least three weeks after sustaining a calf injury playing for his club at the weekend.

However, he is now expected to be sidelined for just two weeks, meaning he could play a part in the clash with Italy at Croke Park on Saturday week.

Giovanni Trapatonni's squad assemble in Dublin next Tuesday to begin preparations for the final two Group D games, with Montenegro also due to visit Croke Park on October 14.