Keith Andrews to miss opening World Cup qualifier

The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed that midfielder Keith Andrews will be suspended for the country's opening World Cup qualifier following his sending-off at Euro 2012.

Andrews was given a second booking late on in the Republic's final group game against Italy as they exited the tournament without a point.

The FAI revealed that Andrews has been given a one-match ban, with a further match suspended until after qualification for Euro 2016.

"Effectively, this means that Andrews will miss the opening World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan in September but will be eligible for the opening home World Cup 2014 qualification match against Germany in October," read an FAI statement.

Andrews is currently a free agent after his contract with Blackburn Rovers expired this summer. He spent last season on loan at Ipswich Town in the Championship and West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.