Soccer

Joey O’Brien withdraws from Ireland squad

The 28-year-old defender has returned to West Ham to receive treatment on a knee injury

Joey O’Brien (left) has withdrawn from Ireland squad. Photograph: Jamie McDonald/Getty Images
Joey O’Brien (left) has withdrawn from Ireland squad. Photograph: Jamie McDonald/Getty Images
Tue Sept 02 2014 - 11:36

West Ham defender Joey O'Brien has withdrawn from the Republic of Ireland squad through injury.

The 28-year-old, who met up with his international colleagues in Malahide on Sunday, is to return to his club for treatment on a knee injury.

An FAI spokesman said: "The Football Association of Ireland today confirmed that Joey O'Brien has withdrawn from the Irish squad, and will return to his club for treatment on an ongoing knee problem."

O'Brien's withdrawal means manager Martin O'Neill now has 26 players at his disposal as he prepares for tomorrow night's friendly against Oman in Dublin and the opening Euro 2016 qualifier in Georgia on Sunday.