Lambert backing for Given and Dunne

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert believes Ireland duo Shay Given and Richard Dunne have learned valuable lessons from their tough Euro 2012 campaign.

The Republic were comprehensively dumped out of the group stages at last month’s tournament following defeats to Croatia, Italy and Spain, with Given’s performances subject to some criticism.

Goalkeeper Given and centre-back Dunne currently remain on holiday and are not due to return to training with the rest of the Villa squad until next week.

Lambert has confirmed speaking with both players during the Republic’s campaign, and will do so again upon their return, but does not anticipate any hangover.

“They’re two experienced lads, they’re not kids and they’ve been round the course before,” Lambert said.

“It was a great honour for them, I’m pretty sure, to have taken part in a major tournament. Okay, it might not have gone the way they wanted it to go, but they were still part of it, a great tournament. I am pretty sure the experience will be good.’’

Elsewhere Birmingham midfielder Keith Fahey, who missed Euro 2012, through injury, is also likely to miss out on next month’s friendly against Serbia and more importantly Ireland’s opening Euro 2012 qualifier against Kazakhstan on September 7.

“Keith is making slow progress,” new Birmingham manager Lee Clark said.

“It will probably be the middle of September when Keith is available for first-team selection.

Meanwhile former Ireland goalkeeper Paddy Kenny has completed his move from QPR to Leeds United.

“I’m delighted it’s done,’’ Kenny said.

“It’s a massive club and I’m excited for the challenge ahead. Hopefully I can do what I did at QPR and help this club back into the Premier League where it belongs.’’