Collins a doubt for Republic of Ireland with calf injury

Collins was forced off in Brentford's 1-1 draw against Sunderland last weekend [Getty Images] Republic of Ireland captain Nathan Collins is a doubt for the start of the upcoming Nations League campaign after picking up a calf injury. Collins was forced off in Brentford's 1-1 draw against Sunderland in the Premier League last weekend with the injury. Bees boss Keith Andrews confirmed in his press conference before their game against Bournemouth that the centre-back is set for a spell on the sidelines. "No, he won't be involved this side of the international break. Unfortunately, he's picked up a calf injury," Andrews said when asked about the 40-capped defender. "He probably felt it a little bit earlier in the game and tried to play through it, naturally, like he would, given the type of character he is and being one of our leaders and our captains. "So, no, unfortunately he won't be involved." Heimir Hallgrimsson's side open their Group B3 campaign away to Kosovo on Thuesday, 24 September before facing Israel three days later. The Irish then host Austria at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday, 1 October and close the extended international break when they take on Israel again at a neutral venue on Sunday, 4 October.