Republic of Ireland assistant manager Roy Keane admits Jon Walters is the side's key fitness concern but is hopeful the Stoke man will be fit for their Euro 2016 opener against Sweden on Monday.
Captain Robbie Keane trained with his Republic of Ireland team-mates for a second consecutive morning at Abbotstown earlier today as he continues his comeback from a calf strain but Robbie Brady (back) sat it out.
Walters’ Achilles strain saw him miss another session as he instead trained at the gym and did some light running.
“It’s not ideal of course but I think he’s feeling better in himself," Keane told RTÉ Sport.
"The medical staff are looking after him and there has been improvement.
“Jon is a lot more positive about it and we’re probably looking more towards the end of the week...
“Jon’s a fit lad anyway so hopefully that won’t be a problem for next week. Obviously, the closer we get to the game, Jon would be the biggest worry but we’ll play it by ear, day to day.
“But in his body language he’s a lot more positive than he was a few days ago."
Brady again adopted the role of an onlooker as he continues to recover from the back spasm he suffered at the weekend.
“Robbie is fine," said the assistant boss.
"I think he was even tempted to train today but with the travelling tomorrow he’ll have almost another day’s recovery.
“So it was really just a precaution for Robbie Brady. I wouldn’t be worried one bit, he’ll be fine.
“Robbie (Keane) joined in, started and finished the session, Jon Walters did a light jog.
“They’re important players for us and have a big part to play in the campaign. Jon is a big character for us, Robbie has done really well, particularly on his set-plays etc, so we hope they’ll be ready for next week.”
