Trap: Given out of qualifier

GIOVANNI TRAPATTONI yesterday confirmed goalkeeper Shay Given will miss next month’s Euro 2012 qualifier with Macedonia following the recurrence of a shoulder injury.

But there was a glimmer of good news as the Republic of Ireland manager said he has spoken to captain Robbie Keane who is “hopeful” of being fit for the March 26th clash at the Aviva Stadium.

Given, capped a record 110 times, is seeing a specialist in London this week to assess his left shoulder after injuring it once again in the warm-up ahead of Manchester City’s Europa League round of 32, first leg with Aris Salonika last Tuesday.

Given was out for three months following surgery on the same should erafter dislocating it against Arsenal last April.

“I am disappointed that Shay will not be able make it in for the Macedonia qualifier due to a shoulder injury,” said Trapattoni.

“Shay’s presence in the squad has always been extremely important and he will certainly be missed. That said, we have good options in Keiren Westwood and Joe Murphy.”

But Trapattoni had cautiously better news on West Ham striker Keane, who is currently recovering from a calf muscle injury which was initially feared could put him out for another month.

“I have been in touch with Robbie and he is hopeful that he can be back in time for the Macedonia game which we will very much welcome.

“He is doing everything he can to get fit and we will continue to monitor his progress.”