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LONG TIME COMING

Boost for Republic of Ireland as Shane Long is passed fit to face Denmark in Uefa Nations League

The Southampton striker's availability is key as Martin O'Neill has fitness concerns over a number of his frontmen

SHANE LONG has been passed fit for Saturday's Uefa Nations League clash with Denmark.

Ireland frontman Long was doubtful with an ankle injury and missed training on Tuesday and Wednesday.

 Shane Long is available to face Denmark
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Shane Long is available to face DenmarkCredit: Sportsfile

But he was cleared to train during today's behind closed doors session and reported no discomfort afterwards as he made himself available for the Denmark game.

His fitness is a big boost for manager Martin O’Neill who has concerns over all five of the strikers he has selected in the squad.

Long had been doubtful this week and has only played 14 minutes of club action since recovering from a foot complaint that kept him out of last month’s games with Wales and Poland.

But the 82-times capped striker is the only experienced front man in the squad with none of Seán Maguire, Callum Robinson, Aiden O’Brien and Scott Hogan having more than two caps.

There are also concerns there with Maguire just back from a hamstring injury and Hogan back from a knee problem, though he has yet to play a club game, while Aiden O’Brien has lost his place at Millwall.

The FAI also revealed this afternoon that over 46,000 tickets have gone for the Denmark game at the Aviva Stadium - with Ireland facing Wales at the same venue on Tuesday.

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