Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill has a major fitness concern over full-back Stephen Ward ahead of Sunday's Euro 2016 clash with hosts France.
The Burnley defender damaged an ankle during the first half of Wednesday night's 1-0 Group E victory over Italy in Lille, but managed to complete the match as the Republic booked their place in the last 16.
However, O'Neill revealed yesterday that Ward was a concern, and he did not train this morning when the rest of the squad continued their preparations in Versailles.
"Stephen’s ankle is well blown up at the moment. He's desperate to play," he told reporters.
Striker Jonathan Walters, who missed the games against Belgium and Italy with an Achilles injury, did work with his team-mates, though, to hand O'Neill a welcome boost.
Jon Walters warming up with the Ireland squad here in Versailles. Stephen Ward resting ankle injury. @RTEsoccer pic.twitter.com/1vdPstj9jA
— Ed Leahy (@Ed_Leahy) June 24, 2016
