Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill has confirmed that Seamus Coleman suffered a broken leg during their World Cup qualifying clash with Wales this evening.
The Dragons were reduced to 10 men in the second half when defender Neil Taylor produced a poorly-timed lunge on Coleman, leaving the full-back to be removed by stretcher after receiving lengthy treatment on the pitch.
"It's a bad break. He's a fantastic player and character. It's a major blow for the lad, his club and us," said O'Neill, according to Sky Sports News.
"Apparently it wasn't the best challenge in the world – I haven't seen it. He's gone to hospital. I saw his reaction immediately and it didn't look good. He was holding his leg up and it didn't look good.
"We had a few things to overcome this week. We have a really great spirit. Seamus is a major blow - at the end of it all the most important thing is Seamus's health."
Both Wales manager Chris Coleman and frontman Gareth Bale have moved to wish Coleman well during his recovery.
Christopher Dodd
