Long is latest injury worry

5 February 2013; Republic of Ireland's Shane Long during squad training ahead of their international friendly against Poland on Wednesday. Republic of Ireland Squad Training, Gannon Park, Malahide, Co. Dublin. Picture credit: David Maher / SPORTSFILE

Paul Hyland

SHANE LONG is a new injury concern for Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni just three weeks ahead of crunch World Cup qualifiers against Sweden and Austria.

Long turned his ankle during the Baggies' 2-1 win over Sunderland and had to leave the pitch early.

"It didn't feel the best after the game but hopefully I can get a better assessment in the next couple of days," claimed Long.

The West Brom striker has been the subject of intense speculation about a possible move away from the Hawthorns but Long is happy to reassure fans that he has no immediate plans to leave.

"Am I committed to West Brom for next season? Yes, I'm happy here. I like playing for the manager here. He is very good, and I'm learning a lot every week," claimed Long.

"The lads are a good bunch, the family are happy up here, so I'm not looking to move on.

"I'm concentrating on this season and hopefully getting a few more goals and kicking on from there."