Republic of Ireland defender Ciaran Clark is backing his defensive partner Shane Duffy to put his club struggles behind him.
The pair look set to start together in Belgrade tomorrow night as Ireland begin their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign away to Serbia.
Duffy has struggled for form since joining Celtic on loan this season, with the club surrendering their Scottish title, and manager Neil Lennon getting sacked.
With Sheffield United’s John Egan injured, Clark and Shane Duffy could be set to marshal the defense, Clark says he has every confidence that Duffy will be able to put his experience to good use.
Supporters
Callum Robinson says they will be thinking of the Irish fans when they begin their game on Wednesday.
Once again, the game will be played behind closed doors due to Covid restrictions.
Robinson says they owe it to the loyal Irish fans, who he says have never given up on them.
Injuries
Elsewhere defender Ciaran Clark says injuries will not be an excuse if they fail to perform.
The manager’s luckless run is continuing, with a number of key players out injured, including Darren Randolph, John Egan, and Conor Hourihane.
Center-back Clark says they can’t feel sorry for themselves, however.
Goalkeeper
Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny has confirmed Mark Travers will start in goal for tomorrow’s opening 2022 World Cup qualifier against Serbia.
Travers will make his competitive debut, following injuries to both Darren Randolph and Caoimhin Kelleher.
The Bournemouth keeper’s two previous caps came in friendlies against Bulgaria and New Zealand.
