Hamstrung Houghton faces race for fitness

RAY HOUGHTON'S prospects of playing for the Republic of Ireland in next Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia appear remote. Yesterday, he notified Mick McCarthy of the extent of the hamstring injury which prevented him from playing for Crystal Palace, on Tuesday.

As things stand, a pessimistic Houghton holds out little hope of linking up with the Irish squad tomorrow, although McCarthy will afford his pivotal central midfielder every opportunity to recover full fitness.

"I've spoken to Mick McCarthy and he has promised to give me as much time as I need, so I'm going to wait before making a final decision," said Houghton last night. "At this moment in time, I would be highly doubtful, but who knows what the next 48 hours will bring?

"Mick has told me to wait as long as possible and not to worry about reporting with the rest of the team on Friday. It's very much touch and go," said the 34 year old midfielder bleakly.

Andy Townsend is not expected to report for duty tomorrow either, although in his case the prognosis is far more encouraging. The Aston Villa physiotherapist Jim Walker confirmed yesterday that the Irish captain is "continuing to make steady progress".

"I'll probably ask Mick McCarthy if I can keep Andy here for another day to work on his back," he added, "but I expect he should be able to join the Irish squad on Saturday.

David Connolly, the young Watford striker, is not expected to provide cover for the four recognised strikers in the 20 man Irish squad. Indeed, Connolly will probably be withdrawn from the under 21 squad on duty in the European Championships against FYR Macedonia at Dalymount Park next Tuesday after failing to last half an hour in his comeback match on Tuesday night in front of the watching McCarthy. Middlesbrough's Steve Baker has been called into the under 21, squad.