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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Ian Parker

Dan Ballard ruled out of play-off in huge blow to Northern Ireland’s World Cup dream

Dan Ballard Northern Ireland World Cup Federico Chiesa Michael ONeill Italy Liverpool Brighton EPL
Dan Ballard’s absence was expected but gutting nonetheless - (Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

Dan Ballard has been ruled out of Northern Ireland's World Cup qualifying play-off semi-final against Italy with a hamstring injury.

The news had been expected after Ballard sat out Sunderland's 2-1 win over rivals Newcastle on Sunday with the injury he suffered in last week's defeat at the hands of Brighton.

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