Hibs’ Colgan to get chance

BRIAN KERR yesterday saluted the huge contribution made to Ireland’s cause over the past six years by Shay Given as the goalkeeper prepared to make his 50th international appearance against Norway at Lansdowne Road tonight.

Given is certain to receive a rapturous reception from at least 35,000 fans when he departs to make way for Hibs' Nick Colgan as Kerr takes the opportunity to expose some of Ireland's back-up players to the rigours of a full international contest.

The need for Colgan to be given experience in a hurry was made acute by the unexpected retirement of Dean Kiely last week, which left Ireland suddenly short of experience in a position where they had an embarrassment of riches as recently as last summer's World Cup.