IRELAND MIDFIELDER PAUL Green is almost certain to miss next month’s World Cup qualifier with Kazakhstan, according to his club boss.

The 29-year-old, who was without a club while appearing for the Boys in Green during Euro 2012, signed for Leeds United during the summer and made his league debut in their 1-0 Championship win over Wolves on Saturday afternoon.

Just before half-time however, he was forced off the pitch with a knee injury and manager Neil Warnock has today confirmed that he suffered a strain.

It’s looking like a grade two strain or a tear,” Warnock told the club’s website. “We’re hoping four or six weeks, but it could be eight weeks. I had the dreaded feeling with it being his knee.

“He had a good pre-season and it’s a blow to us, but he’s a good healer so with a bit of luck it might not be as bad.”

Giovanni Trapattoni is set to name his squad tomorrow (4pm) for the trip to Kazakhstan where they begin their qualification campaign for the 2014 World Cup on  September 7.

And with Green now all but ruled out, Keith Andrews suspended and Keith Fahey still sidelined, Trap will have to explore other midfield options, which could spell good news for Norwich City’s Wes Hoolahan.

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