Bayern star Laimer fit for Ireland, LASK captain remains doubtful

Austria's national team is preparing for the third friendly of the break against Ireland. Bayern star Konrad Laimer is back in action after an adductor injury, allowing coach Ralf Rangnick to once again rely on a Bundesliga trio. The away match in Dublin is considered the toughest encounter according to the FIFA ranking.

After convincing 3‑1 victories over Israel and Kosovo, the team under Rangnick holds the 22nd place in the world ranking. The Irish opponent sits at rank 55 at the top of the list and therefore presents the biggest challenge.

Injured and possible line‑ups

Laimer, the versatile defender from Bayern, could initially start on the bench. Michael Gregoritsch and Philipp Mwene, who featured in the starting eleven against Israel, are also back after knee and thigh injuries. LASK captain Sascha Horvath, who was added to the squad as a late call‑up, however suffers from thigh problems and remains doubtful.

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The two debutants Christian Zawieschitzky and Vasilije Markovic are completely absent; they will bolster the U21 for the Euro qualification against Denmark and Wales.

After the match in Dublin, the return fixture against Kosovo awaits on Sunday, which will further determine the team's current standing.