Givens: U-21s just a step from senior call-up

REPUBLIC of Ireland U-21 manager Don Givens has told his players they could be just one game away from a senior call-up if they put on a show against Portugal in their opening European Championship qualifier at Turner’s Cross tomorrow night (ko 7.30pm).

Senior boss Steve Staunton has put the whole U-21 squad on standby, and Givens has declared that the underage route can bring quick reward with a full international call-up.

“I’m sure they realise the step to the senior squad is now a smaller step. To come in and produce the goods at this level means they are not very far away at all.”