Republic of Ireland lose Arter

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The 25-year-old came on in last weekend’s goalless friendly against England but has picked up groin and thigh injuries and will play no part at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Republic of Ireland assistant manager Roy Keane said: “Harry is out of the squad. He’s gone back to England because he’s had a hip problem. He’s not coming back.”

Better news for Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill is the return of talismanic striker Robbie Keane, who missed the draw with Roy Hodgson’s side due to a groin problem being treated by his club, LA Galaxy.

Roy Keane said of his namesake: “He’s trained today. He’s only had one full game the last few months which isn’t ideal but they’ll always be one that’s carrying a knock or struggling for fitness.

“His fitness is fine in terms of the groin injury but it’s a question of match fitness.”

In a desperately tight Group D, the Republic of Ireland currently lie in fourth – two points behind Saturday’s visitors but only three points behind leaders Poland.

We take a look at the state of play ahead of the final round of qualifiers before the summer break.