Republic hit by injured Seagull blow

Brighton striker Aaron Connolly is out of the Republic of Ireland’s Euro 2020 showdown with Denmark after picking up an injury. The 19-year-old made a scintillating debut for his country in Georgia last month but has suffered a setback in his fledgling international career as Mick McCarthy’s men go in search of a big win.
Connolly has been forced to withdraw from the squad with a groin injury picked up during the Seagulls’ 3-1 Premier League defeat at Manchester United on Sunday.
The full extent of the damage and how long he will be out for has yet to be revealed, but the next two games for the Republic of Ireland will definitely come too soon.
McCarthy was keeping his fingers crossed as the rest of the squad met up in Dublin on Sunday ahead of Thursday’s friendly against New Zealand and Monday night’s qualifier, with Connolly staying behind for a scan, but his worst fears were confirmed on Monday evening.
McCarthy said: “Our team doctor Alan Byrne has spoken to the Brighton medical team and had a look at the scans. “The scans have confirmed the groin injury and Aaron won’t be ready in time for New Zealand and Denmark.”
The teenager’s absence represents a significant blow to McCarthy despite the return to fitness of Sheffield United striker David McGoldrick, who sat out last month’s qualifiers against the Georgians and Switzerland through injury.
Connolly produced a thrilling late cameo in Tbilisi and very nearly won a tight encounter, in the process earning himself a first senior start in Geneva three days later.
McCarthy has opted not to call up a replacement with Callum Robinson, James Collins, Scott Hogan and 17-year-old Tottenham striker Troy Parrott already in camp.
Brighton return to action on November 23 when they entertain Leicester City in a tough game at the Amex, and it will be hoped that Connolly is fit for the encounter with Brendan Rodgers’ side.