Liverpool's Swiss defender Stephane Henchoz will miss the European Championship qualifier against the Republic of Ireland at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday week after picking up an injury.
Henchoz injured his calf in the first half of yesterday's 1-0 win over Chelsea and must have an operation that will keep him sidelined for five weeks.
Liverpool assistant manager Phil Thompson said: "Obviously it's a big blow for us because Stephane is a very influential player, but when you have somebody of the calibre of Djimi Traore to come in and take his place then that makes things a bit easier".