Epinal is an amateur team, its players work in all sections of society and train when their jobs allow.

CNN: January 7, 2013 -- Updated 1530 GMT (2330 HKT)

"You don't want to come off when you're playing for your amateur team, never mind when it's your country, " he said.

BBC: Luke Robinson faces double surgery before wedding

Duffy was hurt in a seemingly innocuous collision with Irish Amateur team keeper Adrian Walsh, and collapsed in agony on the pitch at Malahide United's Gannon Park home.

BBC: Shane Duffy leaves hospital a week after almost dying