Long’s French dissapointment

Reading’s Shane Long has spoken of his “massive disappointment” at missing out on the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup play-off with France.

The 22-year-old has had an injection to cure an ankle injury and has pulled out of Giovanni Trapattoni’s squad – and believes he would have been involved as Royals team-mate Noel Hunt and Hull’s Caleb Folan also withdrew through injury.

He said: “It’s a massive disappointment for me because Noel is injured and Caleb Folan is also out so I think I could have been in with a really good shot. It’s unfortunate timing but I just hope the boys can do what’s necessary.

“I’m definitely going to Dublin to watch the game. I’ll be there on Saturday to give the lads my full support.

“It’s a massive game for the country and Croke Park will be manic. I would love to be a part of it so hopefully the players will do the business and get us to South Africa so that I can be part of the World Cup squad.”