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Littlejohn to miss Poland World Cup qualifier
TL;DR
Ruesha Littlejohn will miss the World Cup qualifier against Poland due to an Achilles injury flare-up. She is anticipated to return for the second match in the double header at the Aviva Stadium.
Midfielder Ruesha Littlejohn is closing in on a century of caps for the Republic of Ireland [Getty Images]
Republic of Ireland midfielder Ruesha Littlejohn has been ruled out of Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Poland in Gdansk (17:00 BST).
The 35-year-old is unavailable due to "a flare up" of an Achilles injury but is expected to return for the second match of the must-win double header at the Aviva Stadium.
The Republic of Ireland lost against France and Netherlands in their opening two matches of the qualifying campaign and currently sit bottom of the Group A2.
"Ruesha will be out tomorrow but available for the second game," said Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward.
"Just a flare-up in the Achilles. She'll be back next game."
Poland opened their campaign with a draw at home to the Netherlands before being beaten 4-1 by leaders France.
Tuesday's home side have multiple key threats upfront, including captain Ewa Pajor, with the side netting 12 goals in their past five games.
"You can't underestimate Poland," Ward continued.
"They're a top side with world class players, similar to France and Netherlands. So it'll be the same approach as it would be if we were playing France and Netherlands and we want to try and get points from every single game.
"We love to fight. We love the energy. They're similar. So, we're going to have to absolutely match that."
Q&A
Why is Ruesha Littlejohn missing the World Cup qualifier against Poland?
Ruesha Littlejohn is missing the qualifier due to a flare-up of an Achilles injury.
When is Ruesha Littlejohn expected to return to play?
She is expected to return for the second match of the double header at the Aviva Stadium.
What is the current standing of the Republic of Ireland in the World Cup qualifying campaign?
The Republic of Ireland currently sits bottom of Group A2 after losing their opening two matches against France and the Netherlands.
