Seamus Coleman picked up a hamstring injury in Everton's win against Brighton and the FAI have confirmed that he is set to miss the crucial play-off.
After going down clutching his hamstring in Everton's 4-2 win over Brighton at Goodison Park, Irish supporters instantly feared the worst for Seamus Coleman and it appears that those fears have been proven right.
In an official statement, the FAI have said: "Stephen Kenny has confirmed that Seamus Coleman will most likely be ruled out whilst we're awaiting news on Harry Arter who has had a scan."
Despite the fact that he didn't start in Kenny's first two games in charge against Bulgaria and Finland, the former Sligo Rovers man has made an excellent start to the season for Carlo Ancelotti's side and was expected to challenge Matt Doherty for the starting role as right-back, provided Kenny sticks to his usual system of four at the back.
Seamus Coleman
Speaking at today's press conference ahead of the Slovakia game, Kenny said: "Seamus Coleman is not great news. I knew when I saw him pull up. He seems to have a hamstring strain that will most likely rule him out.
The Everton captain is still set to meet up with the rest of the squad this afternoon to have the injury assessed.
Harry Arter is also a doubt for the fixture in Bratislava, meaning James McCarthy looks set to start as the holding midfielder on Thursday night.
In terms of new additions, Kevin Long has been added to the squad after Blackburn defender Darragh Lenihan was forced to withdraw due to injury.
Injury Update | Coleman likely to be ruled out
Stephen Kenny has confirmed that Seamus Coleman will most likely be ruled out whilst we're awaiting news on Harry Arter who has had a scan #COYBIG | #SLOIRL pic.twitter.com/tOpySZH2TO— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) October 4, 2020
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