King fears impact of injuries

Republic of Ireland Under-21s boss Noel King admits his side’s European Championship qualifying campaign could be hit by injuries ahead of their Group Seven clash in Turkey tomorrow.

The Republic will be without Arsenal striker Rhys Murphy, who scored the winner in the opener against Hungary on Thursday but suffered a hamstring strain and was forced to return to London.

With Joe Mason, Sean Scannell and Aaron Doran already ruled out, and Wigan’s James McCarthy called up to the senior squad, King acknowledges his options will be limited in Manisa.

King said: “Losing Rhys Murphy is a blow because he had an impressive debut and did a good job for us on the night.

“With a couple of forced changes made from the last game it gives other players an opportunity to show their quality in an important game like this.”

Shrewsbury’s James Collins has been added to the squad and is pushing for a place in the starting line-up.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Conor Clifford could replace McCarthy in midfield.

King added: “The group won’t be decided on this game.

“There are eight matches to play and we’re looking to build some momentum after a good result in our opening game.”