Given doubtful for Euro qualifier

SHAY GIVEN is a major doubt for the Republic of Ireland’s crucial Euro 2012 qualifier against Macedonia next month after Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini revealed he has sustained a shoulder injury and may require surgery.

Goalkeeper Given, who has played second fiddle to Joe Hart all season, was left out of City’s squad for yesterday’s 5-0 FA Cup fifth round win over Notts County, having picked up the injury, reportedly during the warm up for the Europa League tie against Aris Salonika during the week.

“He has a shoulder problem and next week he will go to the doctor in London to see if he needs surgery,” Mancini revealed.

The news casts doubt over his availability for the Republic’s Group B game with Macedonia at the Aviva on March 26th.