Massive World Cup Qualifier on Saturday. A draw or unlikely win for Ireland will put us in a great position in the group going into the winter break. Austria, though, really have to win to rekindle their hopes of qualification. Lots of injuries from the Irish perspective. This is the final squad, with League of Ireland players Daryl Horgan and Andy Boyle included: Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph (West Ham United), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday), Colin Doyle (Bradford City). Defenders: Seamus Coleman (Everton), Richard Keogh, Alex Pearce (Derby County), John O'Shea (Sunderland), Ciaran Clark (Newcastle United), Paul McShane (Reading), Shane Duffy (Brighton & Hove Albion), Andy Boyle (Dundalk). Midfielders: Aiden McGeady (Preston North End*), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion), Jeff Hendrick (Burnley), Glenn Whelan (Stoke City), Harry Arter (Bournemouth), Eunan O'Kane (Leeds United), David Meyler (Hull City), Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Robbie Brady, Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Callum O'Dowda (Bristol City), Jonathan Hayes (Aberdeen), Daryl Horgan (Dundalk). Forwards: Jonathan Walters (Stoke City), Adam Rooney (Aberdeen), Kevin Doyle (Colorado Rapids), David McGoldrick (Ipswich Town).
Top of the group. Wales, and especially Austria, struggling. Wales have what it takes to make this group very interesting, but I think the Austrians might already have a bridge too far. Played in Austria and Serbia, have come away with 4 points. Excellent return. If the home form mirrors or betters the away form, there's an outside chance of topping the table. Next game, home to Wales (in March?), is huge. A win causes all sorts of problems for Wales, a draw keeps them barely in touching distance. I think Mitrovic's goal is going to prove as decisive in the group as McClean's. ETA: I had to check, but the seeding for this group was Wales, Austria, Serbia, Ireland…
It does look very promising indeed. If we manage to beat the Welsh they can say goodbye to any chance they might have.