Finnan withdraws from Eire squad

Finnan has been a doubt for the Slovakia game since picking up a knee injury in Liverpool's 6-0 win over Derby on Saturday. He remained in Melwood receiving treatment in the hope of recovering in time for this weekend's international but has admitted defeat and withdrawn from the squad. Finnan is still hopeful of playing in Wednesday's game against the Czech Republic.

"He will stay in Liverpool for treatment and we will continue to monitor his progress. If he improves he will join us in Prague," said Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton.