James McClean a doubt for Ireland’s crunch clash with Poland after training ground injury

Not a great start to a big week

Martin O'Neill faces an anxious wait to discover whether James McClean will be fit for Sunday's crucial Euro 2016 qualifier against Poland after the Wigan Athletic midfielder limped out of training in Malahide on Tuesday. McClean pulled up during the warm-up for Tuesday's session and was driven away from the training ground with his leg heavily strapped.

"James has got a sore ankle," O'Neill said. "He felt a little bit sore after yesterday and he thought it would go away. It's a pain across the ankle. He's going for a scan. We'll see how he is.

"I haven't picked a side yet. James has been playing exceptionally well for us, he's played most of the games I've been in charge. I know him quite well - very well, in fact. We'll see how he is."

McClean has started Ireland's last three qualifiers on the left wing and, should he miss Sunday's game, will be another blow to O'Neill with regular left-back Stephen Ward also a major injury doubt.