Newcastle United defender Ciaran Clark will not participate in the Republic of Ireland’s UEFA Nations League clash against Wales this evening because of a thigh problem.
The centre-back’s fitness has been a concern for Ireland boss Martin O’Neill in the ongoing international break and he will now sit out of his country’s crunch tie with Wales, Sky Sports have reported.
Twitter: BREAKING: Ciaran Clark out of Republic of Ireland’s match against Wales tonight with thigh injury. #SSN (@SkySportsNews)
Clark has been an important player for Newcastle this season and Rafa Benitez will be desperately hoping to have the defender at his disposal ahead of the weekend’s fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion.
With the Magpies languishing near the bottom of the Premier League table following a winless start, Benitez will be hoping to have a near full-strength squad to choose upon.
The 29-year-old has made five Premier League starts this season and will be keen to avoid facing a spell on the sidelines.
