Trap: Given can emulate Zoff

GIOVANNI TRAPATTONI has hailed the quality and staying power of Shay Given, and suggested that Ireland’s No 1 can go on to emulate Italian legend Dino Zoff.

The Ireland goalkeeper joined up with the national squad in Malahide yesterday, having impressed on his debut Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday following his move from Newcastle United. And Trapattoni is convinced that the 32-year-old will comfortably see out his four and half year contract at Eastlands – and beyond.

“Goalkeepers are lucky because they can play until they are 40,” said the Ireland boss.