Martin O’Neill confirms Jon Walters as a serious doubt for Belgium game

Stoke forward suffered recurrence of Achilles injury early in game against Sweden 

Jonathan Walters takes a breather during the game against Sweden at Stade de France. Photograph: Donall Farmer/Inpho

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill has confirmed that Jonathan Walters is a serious doubt for Saturday’s key Group E clash with Belgium in Bordeaux .

The Stoke forward admitted that he had suffered the recurrence of an Achilles injury as early as the first minute in the opening 1-1 draw against Sweden in Paris on Monday. Walters was eventually replaced by James McClean after 64 minutes.

And speaking to FAI TV on Tuesday afternoon, manager Martin O’Neill said: “Jon Walters, obviously, would be the main concern. I’d say he would be pretty doubtful for the second game coming up.”

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