Best and O'Shea to miss Republic's play-off

Leon Best was already a major doubt for the game (GETTY IMAGES)

Sunderland defender John O'Shea and Newcastle striker Leon Best have been ruled out of the first leg of Ireland's European Championship play-off match against Estonia on Friday.

O'Shea has a hamstring injury while Best is absent because his partner has gone into labour. Both are expected to be available for the return leg in Dublin on Tuesday.

Striker Shane Long (knee), midfielder Liam Lawrence (ankle) and striker Kevin Doyle, who is suspended, will also miss the first leg in Tallinn.

PA