The Manchester United winger isn't likely to play against Slovakia on Oct. 7, but he hopes to face Cyprus four days later.

``I have had a couple of chats with Ryan and he wants to be involved, but this has been a severe tear of his hamstring and his recovery period ends on the day of the second of our two Group D matches,'' Wales manager John Toshack said.

``We have to be realistic and start preparing to be without him. You cannot replace Ryan Giggs, but we will have to find some alternatives.''

Toshack will be without Mark Delaney (knee) and Sam Ricketts (fractured cheekbone). Forward Carl Fletcher is in doubt with an ankle problem, while striker John Hartson could be added to the squad if he overcomes his injured ankle.

Craig Bellamy is due in court to face assault charges during that week, but the Liverpool striker will still be available to play.