It's been a nervy few weeks for the Republic of Ireland as the weeks count down to the crunch Euro 2016 playoff against Bosnia.
With the first leg less than two weeks away, some of Martin O'Neill's key players haven't been fully fit. Now though, it looks like things are easing for O'Neill.
Sunderland have confirmed that John O'Shea's hamstring injury isn't as bad as it was feared. O'Shea has already returned to Sunderland training, and is set to be in contention to play this weekend against Southampton.
One Irish player who won't be involved in that game is Shane Long. Southampton manager Ronald Koeman suggests that Long is close to a return - but is unlikely to be risked for this weekend:
He was close to being back, he did some training yesterday with the team but he's still not 100%, and you need to be 100% to be part of the squad and he's not available for this weekend.
Koeman's comments appear to suggest that Long would be available for O'Neill for both Bosnia games next week.
Meanwhile, Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy reveals that David McGolrick (Didz)isn't likely to play this week:
Didz has had a niggle in his groin during training this morning though and he’s having treatment.
It has been bothering him a little bit recently and I had to be aware of that.
