Alex Bruce ruled out for Northern Ireland

Alex Bruce has been ruled out of the Northern Ireland squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifier in Portugal.

The Hull City defender, who was expected to make his debut for the national team on Tuesday, has had to fly back to Britain with a groin injury.

"Gutted I've came home from Portugal yesterday," he tweeted.

"The groin strain I picked up playing for Hull still isn't right, hope the lads get a result."

Grant McCann has also been forced to withdraw from the squad with a knee problem.

The news has added to manager Michael O'Neill's injury woes after four other players recently pulled out of the match through injury.