O’Neill welcomes back some big names to Republic of Ireland training

James McCarthy is back in action for the Republic of Ireland having sat out of international training so far this week.

The Everton midfielder was said to be struggling with fatigue after a hectic recent club schedule but he took part in full training up at the Irish's training base in Malahide this morning.

James McClean was also back in training after limping out at the start of Tuesday's session with an ankle injury he sustained on Monday.

Meanwhile, there was also a first showing for left back Stephen Ward who looked to be the biggest doubt ahead of Sunday's European Championships qualifier with Poland.

Ward was also struggling with an ankle injury but he was taking part in a competitive training game today and looks like he could be ready for the weekend.

With McClean and McCarthy back in action along with Ward and Seamus Coleman completing another session, the Irish are thus far looking close to full strength.

Kick off for Sunday's crunch clash with the group's leaders, Poland, is set for 7.45pm at the Aviva Stadium