Ireland and Wales face each other in a huge home-nations-based World Cup qualifier on Friday night, with Martin O'Neill's side top of Group D and the Dragons trailing four points behind.

But at the current rate, there may not be any Ireland stars left to represent their country by the time the clash in Dublin comes around.

Newcastle striker Daryl Murphy has now been ruled out of the Aviva Stadium meet with a calf injury, meaning O'Neill could be without ten of the players he selected in his latest squad.

Indeed, Shane Duffy, Ciaran Clark, Wes Hoolahan and Harry Arter have also been ruled out, whilst Robbie Brady is suspended, James McCarthy is a doubt and Seamus Coleman, Jonny Hayes and Shane Long all sat out of training today as a precaution.

Murphy's injury could also have an impact on Newcastle's promotion bid, having started three of the Magpies' last four Championship fixtures.

Newcastle and Ireland fans have been reacting to the news on Twitter:

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