Nathan Collins Injury Concerns for Ireland's Nations League Start

Republic of Ireland captain Nathan Collins is facing a race against time to be fit for the start of the Nations League after suffering a calf injury with Brentford.

The centre-back limped out of Brentford’s 1-1 draw with Sunderland in the Premier League last weekend, and the damage is serious enough to rule him out until after the upcoming international window.

Brentford manager Keith Andrews confirmed the setback in his pre-match press conference before their game against Bournemouth, delivering the kind of update no Ireland supporter wanted to hear.

“No, he won't be involved this side of the international break. Unfortunately, he's picked up a calf injury,” Andrews said, adding that Collins had tried to grit his teeth and stay on the pitch.

The defender, capped 40 times by his country, felt the problem earlier in the game but attempted to play through it, true to his reputation as one of Brentford’s leaders and captains.

The gamble didn’t pay off. Now Ireland are left hoping the damage is not worse than first feared.

Upcoming Fixtures

Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side open their Nations League Group B3 campaign away to Kosovo on Thursday, 24 September, before a quick turnaround sees them face Israel three days later.

Those two away fixtures are followed by a crucial home date against Austria at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday, 1 October. Ireland then round off an extended international window by meeting Israel again at a neutral venue on Sunday, 4 October.

It is a demanding schedule, packed into eleven days. Losing their captain at the heart of the defence for any part of it would be a significant blow.