Shane Long suffers injury with Republic of Ireland

Southampton striker Shane Long was forced off in Republic of Ireland’s 3-1 victory over Moldova this evening through an injury.

Twitter: 62: Shane Long goes off with what looks like a hamstring injury and is replaced by Callum O’Dowda. (1-1) #COYBIG (@FAIreland)

The 29-year-old striker had opened the scoring for his country in the very early stages of the game, calmly slotting away the first chance that had fallen to him.

However, halfway through the second half he was substituted after picking up an injury, seeing him hobble off the pitch with a hamstring injury, meaning that he was replaced by Callum O’Dowda.

Claude Puel and Southampton fans alike will be hoping and praying that Long’s injury is not too serious and he will not miss any action due to the fact that after ending his goal drought against Moldova tonight, his confidence will have taken a turn for the better.

Saints are running slightly thin on striking options, with Jay Rodriguez’s match fitness questionable and Long being forced off with injury, leaving Charlie Austin and Nathan Redmond as the only fit, senior forwards at Puel’s disposal.