Everton defender Seamus Coleman will miss Republic of Ireland's Euro 2016 qualifier against Germany on Thursday through injury.
Coleman will sit out the visit of the world champions to Dublin in readiness for Sunday's trip to Poland, which will decide who qualifies directly for the finals, who makes the playoffs and who is eliminated.
Germany are almost certain to qualify, but with Poland favourites to finish second. While Ireland could still make the top two if they finish with a flourish, they are also in danger of being caught by fourth-placed Scotland if the next few days do not go to plan.
Ireland coach Martin O'Neill has decided to give Coleman more time to recover and will return to the side on Sunday, when he celebrates his 27th birthday.
"Seamus had a day off because he's worked exceptionally hard over the last couple of days," O'Neill told reporters. "He's done really, really well but he will not be in the game [against Germany], but I expect him to be fully ready for Sunday."
Wes Hoolahan, who has enjoyed a fine start to the Premier League season with Norwich, is fit after suffering a bruised heel and Cyrus Christie is also available.
"Wes trained today and he was fine, really fine," O'Neill added. "Cyrus obviously wants to play and he's very keen to do so, and he's fine. The physios have done a little bit of work on his and he's ready to go."