Shane Long to miss crucial Euro 2016 play-off first leg for Ireland

It has been confirmed that Southampton striker Shane Long will miss Ireland's first leg of their Euro 2016 play-offs against Bosnia & Herzogovina.

The 28-year-old, who scored the vital winner against Germany in a historic win for his country, actually injured his foot on international duty against Poland in their following fixture.

Ireland boss Martin O'Neill had hoped Long would have regained fitness in time to play both legs against Bosnia despite the forward not having featured for his club since suffering injury.

However, there are hopes Long could well make an appearance for his country in their vital second leg at Dublin's Aviva Stadium according to their FA.

Their statement read: "Shane Long will not be involved in Friday's first leg as he will remain at Southampton for further treatment on his ankle injury, but he has not been ruled out of next Monday's second leg at the Aviva Stadium."

Here's hoping to a speedy recovery for our Shane.