Jeff Hendrick out of Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualifiers

Derby County midfielder Jeff Hendrick has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland's crucial World Cup qualifiers against Sweden and Austria next month.

Rams boss Nigel Clough had expressed doubt as to when the 21-year-old would return to action after sustaining and ankle problem during training.

"The Football Association of Ireland today confirmed that Jeff Hendrick has withdrawn from the Ireland squad to face Sweden and Austria next month," read a statement.

"There are no plans at present to add a replacement."

Giovanni Trapattoni's men welcome Sweden to the Aviva Stadium on September 6 before travelling to Vienna four days later, with all three countries level on points in Group C.