Shay Given has been ruled out of Ireland’s upcoming Euro 2012 qualifier against Macedonia next month.
The Manchester City stopper picked up a shoulder injury in the warm up prior to City’s Europa League tie with Greek side Aris Salonika on Tuesday and it has been revealed that the 34-year old will miss the game at the Aviva Stadium on 26 March.
Given’s absence is a major blow to Giovanni Trapattoni as although Given has not featured regularly for his club this season, he has always been a solid presence between the sticks for the national side.
In Given’s absence, Trap will likely turn to Coventry’s Kieren Westwood as Given’s replacement, with Scunthorpe goalkeeper Joe Murphy in reserve.
In more positive news for Ireland, captain Robbie Keane is said to be responding well to treatment on a calf injury sustained while playing for West Ham and could return to action in time for the Macedonia game.
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