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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Ian Parker

Northern Ireland dealt World Cup blow as Premier League star is ruled out of play-offs

World Cup Northern Ireland Dan Ballard
  • Northern Ireland are set to face Italy in a pivotal World Cup play-off semi-final this week.
  • Northern Ireland's squad has been significantly impacted by injuries, with Sunderland defender Dan Ballard now ruled out due to a hamstring issue.
  • Manager Michael O'Neill has called up 19-year-old Blackburn defender Tom Atcheson for his first senior cap to replace Ballard.
  • Italy will also be without Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa, who has been ruled out with a fresh injury, with Bologna forward Nicolo Cambiaghi called up as his replacement.
  • The winner of the semi-final will advance to play either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina for a place in the upcoming World Cup.

IN FULL

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

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