Soccer

Jonathan Walters returns to training as Stephen Ward sits out

Burnley defender damaged ankle during first half of Wednesday night’s 1-0 win

Republic of Ireland’s Jonathan Walters and Ciaran Clark during a training session at the Stade de Montbauron, Versailles ahead of the Euro 2016 second round clash with France. Photo: Getty Images
Republic of Ireland’s Jonathan Walters and Ciaran Clark during a training session at the Stade de Montbauron, Versailles ahead of the Euro 2016 second round clash with France. Photo: Getty Images
Fri Jun 24 2016 - 10:57

Ireland boss Martin O'Neill has a major fitness concern over full-back Stephen Ward ahead of Sunday's Euro 2016 clash with hosts France.

The Burnley defender damaged an ankle during the first half of Wednesday night’s 1-0 Group E victory over Italy in Lille, but managed to complete the match as the Republic booked their place in the last 16.

However, O’Neill revealed on Thursday afternoon that Ward was a concern, and he did not train on Friday morning when the rest of the squad continued their preparations in Versailles.

Striker Jonathan Walters, who missed the games against Belgium and Italy with an Achilles injury, did work with his team-mates, though, to hand O'Neill a welcome boost.

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