Tardelli backs Given to face Bulgaria

REPUBLIC of Ireland assistant boss Marco Tardelli is hopeful of Shay Given being fit for the World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria next week.

Manchester City goalkeeper Given has been struggling with a hip injury and will miss tomorrow night’s friendly against Nigeria at Craven Cottage but he has taken part in light training.

Tardelli said: “Shay Given is well compared to how he was on Tuesday. Maybe he will be fit for the Bulgaria match and if he is he will start.”