Keeper of the flame

After 15 years of highs and lows, Shay Given is still passionate about playing for his country, Liam Mackey reports

EDDIE COCHRANE sang that they’re ain’t no cure for the summertime blues. But Shay Given reckons he’s found a surefire one — three points to take to the beach from Skopje.

“Well, for sure, that would be ideal,” he smiles. “I’ve a few weeks off after this before we go back pre-season and it’s important to get the right result because you’ll be seething for the whole summer if you don’t. And to finish the season on a high would be fantastic for the whole country.”