Covid still clouding matters as Stephen Kenny looks to halt slide against Bulgaria

The Republic of Ireland manager will be without 25 players missing for a variety of reasons for the crucial Nations League tie at the Aviva Stadium

Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny. Picture: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Over a year has passed since the Republic of Ireland last won a game of football. Three draws and two goals scored across eight fixtures mark the height of the team's success in that time.

The last four games have delivered as many defeats and a quartet of blanks.