Duff pulls out of Dutch encounter
Tuesday, 15 August 2006Watch highlights of the Republic of Ireland v The Netherlands on RTÉ TWO on Wednesday at 10.10pm.
Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton has been dealt another injury problem ahead of the international friendly with The Netherlands tomorrow night.
Damien Duff becomes the latest player to withdraw from the squad because he is not back to full fitness after a groin injury and has returned to Newcastle United for further treatment.
Duff joins the likes of Robbie Keane, Shay Given, Richard Dunne and Ian Harte of the injury list, and it will be an under-strength side that Staunton announces tomorrow.
'Damien is going back to Newcastle, it is precautionary and not worth taking a chance, especially when Germany is only two and a half weeks away,' Staunton said.
'He just feels a wee bit of tightness in the groin and it is not worth the risk.'
The Irish manager also confirmed that Blackburn Rovers midfielder Steven Reid will captain the side tomorrow night.
'I'm looking forward to a very exciting game tomorrow with the young squad we've got,' Staunton added said. 'I want our players to be very positive and express themselves.'
