Anthony Pilkington has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland squad for the World Cup qualifiers with Sweden and Austria.
Pilkington was forced off during his side’s Norwich City’s 0-0 draw against Southampton in the Premier League with a hamstring strain.
Giovanni Trapattoni had hinted he would hand Pilkington a debut in the matches but the Irish manager’s options are now reduced for the double header.
Trapattoni now has 28 players in a provisional squad with 23 to be selected.
