Darren Gibson is out of the Republic of Ireland squad to face Bulgaria World Cup qualifier in Sofia on Saturday.
Manager Giovanni Trapattoni confirmed the Manchester United midfielder has failed to recover from a groin injury suffered in the last league game of the season against Hull City.
And Stoke City midfielder Glenn Whelan left the training ground with his ankle heavily strapped.
There is further cause for concern for the Ireland boss as captain Robbie Keane and Shay Given both sat out this evening's training session.
Keane has an inflamed foot and Given is nursing a hip injury.
Two goalkeepers have been called into the squad, Colin Doyle from Birmingham City and Preston North End's Wayne Henderson.
Trapattoni wants to send his players on holiday with a spring in their step by topping their World Cup qualifying group over the summer.
Ireland can leapfrog world champions Italy with victory over Bulgaria in Sofia on Saturday and, despite the trip coming at the end of a long domestic season, Trapattoni feels his side are capable of maintaining their unbeaten run in Group Eight.
The Republic secured an impressive 1-1 friendly draw with Nigeria at Craven Cottage on Friday night and Trapattoni wants one final push from his players.
'Why not? After the game with Nigeria we showed we can play well and with confidence,' he said.
'The players have played well in qualifying and they will get stronger. I have confidence in them.'
Trapattoni said he is certain Keane will be fit for the weekend.
'It was just as a precaution, he has some inflammation under his foot, it's nothing serious and he will be fine for Saturday,' he said.
