Shane Long out of Republic of Ireland's clash with Wales in Group D of World Cup Qualifiers

Shane Long will miss the Republic of Ireland's crucial World Cup Qualifier against Wales in Cardiff on Monday Shane Long will miss the Republic of Ireland's crucial World Cup Qualifier against Wales in Cardiff on Monday

Shane Long has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland's World Cup Qualifier with Wales due to a hip injury, Sky sources understand.

The news comes as a serious blow for the Republic, who must beat Wales in Monday night's Group D clash, live on Sky Sports, in order to reach the play-offs for the finals in Russia.

Long (right) has been ruled out due to a hip injury

Irish boss Martin O'Neill could now opt to start Daryl Murphy against Wales after the Nottingham Forest striker scored both goals in the 2-0 win over Moldova on Friday night.

O'Neill is already without Burnley striker Jon Walters, who has been missing with a knee injury, but has Preston forward Sean Maguire, who made his international debut against Moldova, and Aston Villa striker Scott Hogan as options.

Daryl Murphy (left, with Long) scored twice against Moldova on Friday and could start again

A win for either team will guarantee a November play-off at their opponents' expense and could yield an automatic qualifying spot if Group D leaders Serbia falter in their last game at home to Georgia.

For Wales, a draw at Cardiff City Stadium would be enough to finish above Ireland in the table - but not necessarily enough to nail a play-off place, with Croatia also in contention.