A spate of forst fires outside the Russian capital Moscow, has put Saturday’s Euro 2004 qualifier between Russia and Ireland in jeopardy.

Air traffic was disrupted earlier today as planes were unable to land at Sheremetyevo international airport, north of the capital.

The Irish squad is currently airborne and may not be able to land, a situation which could force the delay or even postponemnet of Saturday’s fixture.

“We all hope that the smog will not prevent the teams from playing on Saturday,” said Russian Football Union Secretary-General Vladimir Radionov.

RFU press spokesman Andrei Tarabrin said a decision on whetherto go ahead with the match would be decided in conjunction with UEFA on Saturday morning.