Republic of Ireland striker Jonathan Walters misses training

By Mark Crellin

Image: Jon Walters played a key role as the Republic of Ireland qualified for Euro 2016

Republic of Ireland forward Jonathan Walters missed training on Thursday as the squad continued preparations for the European Championship finals in France.

The 32-year-old Stoke striker took a blow to the calf in training on Wednesday and was confined to the gym, although indications are that the problem is not too serious.

Everton midfielder James McCarthy missed the friendlies against the Netherlands and Belarus with a thigh problem but stepped up his recovery on Thursday morning.

Image: James McCarthy (right) has returned to full training

The 25-year-old had worked alone on Wednesday after completing the warm-up but this time he was able to stay and train with the rest of the group at Fota Island.

Captain Robbie Keane was also out on the training field and showed off his skills with a hurling stick alongside staff member Dick Redmond.

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However, the 35-year-old has a calf problem and is not expected to be able to train properly until the middle of next week.

Image: Robbie Keane is recovering from a calf injury

A lay-off for Walters would therefore be of some concern, as Shane Long and Daryl Murphy are currently the only fully-fit strikers in the squad.

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The final day of the pre-tournament training camp will take place on Friday before the players have the weekend off.

The Irish begin their Euro 2016 campaign against Sweden at the Stade de France on Monday 13 June, before further group matches against Belgium and Italy.

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