Avoiding regrets driving force for Shay Given’s international return

Shay Given says a desire to avoid regrets convinced him to return to international football.

Given made his first competitive start since the Euro 2012 finals on Sunday as a late Shane Long goal earned Ireland a 1-1 draw with Poland at the Aviva Stadium.

Last night the veteran goalkeeper was still on a high from the “special” occasion that took place 24 hours earlier — an event which vindicated his decision to come out of retirement.