Givens opts for Banfield

DON GIVENS is hoping some of the Arsenal magic will rub off on his Republic of Ireland U-21 squad after naming Highbury youth coach Neil Banfield as his assistant.

U-21 coach Givens persuaded Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and academy chief Liam Brady that it would be good experience for Banfield as well as the Gunners, after the Highbury duo initially turned down his request.

“I have worked with Neil before and he is a very good coach,” said Givens, whose team take on Poland in today’s friendly (3.30pm ko).