Hunt out of World Cup play-off

Noel Hunt has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland squad for next month’s World Cup qualifying play-offs against France, a Reading spokesperson has said.

The forward underwent surgery on his knee at a London clinic last night and sources at the club fear he will miss the remainder of the season.

Hunt has slowly worked his way into Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni's plans since making his international debut against Poland in 2008.

He came on as a sub against Italy in Bari during the current campaign and started against Montenegro in Ireland's final pool game earlier this month.