Trap caught out as Given ends Ireland career

Shay Given has described his decision to retire as Ireland’s goalkeeper as “an extremely difficult one to make”.

Although the 36-year-old had indicated he would review his international future after the European Championships, the sudden announcement yesterday that he was stepping down took many by surprise — including, one must presume, Giovanni Trapattoni, who had said as recently as Sunday he fully expected Given, along with his fellow senior players Richard Dunne, Robbie Keane and Damien Duff, to continue with the Irish squad for the forthcoming World Cup campaign.

Marco Tardelli was still echoing the manager’s comments only hours before the news of Given’s retirement broke yesterday, as a depleted Irish squad trained in Malahide before flying out to Belgrade today for tomorrow’s friendly game against Serbia.

Asked at lunchtime if it was his understanding that the senior players would still be available for the World Cup campaign, Ireland’s assistant manager replied: “Yes. We decided to change for this friendly but we can count on the players next time, why not? The senior players told us they are ready to start again for the World Cup. The players told us it is okay, no problem for the new season.”

However, all that apparent certainty now appears wholly misplaced, following Given’s phone call to Trapattoni later in the afternoon.

Sources say it was “a proper, lengthy conversation, not just a few words,” and that it was marked by “mutual praise”.

Nevertheless, it ended with confirmation that the Donegal man’s long and distinguished international career was over — barring an “emergency” situation, in which case Given said he would be prepared to make himself available again.

“This has been an extremely difficult decision for me to make,’’ he said. “I have dedicated 16 years of my life to my country, and I have a great affinity with Giovanni Trapattoni’s squad. I’d like to thank the Giovanni, Marco and (goalkeeping coach) Alan Kelly for their support during my time with the team. I will continue to be Ireland’s biggest fan, and wish the lads well as they embark upon their new campaign.”

Trapattoni answered in kind, saying: “It has been a pleasure to work with him during my time with the team. I wish him the very best in his future.”

Given, who holds 125 caps for his country — making him the highest capped Irish player in history — will continue to turn out for Aston Villa in the Premier League.