Stephen Ireland has urged Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given to leave Manchester City and find first team football. Aston Villa’s midfielder did just that last week and suffered a 6-0 defeat in his first game for his new club against Newcastle United, but he insisted afterwards Given should take the plunge too.
The Donegalman has lost his place to Joe Hart in recent weeks and has been linked with moves to Fulham, Arsenal and Celtic.
“I would like to see Shay go,” said Ireland on Sunday. “He needs to be playing every week.
"He is far to be good to be left sitting on the bench. He is a brilliant person and the best goalkeeper I have ever played with.
“He deserves first team football.”
Ireland’s fellow Corkman Roy Keane has also been talking up another of Giovanni Trapattoni’s charges ahead of the start of the euro 2012 qualifiers.
New Ipswich signing Darren O’Dea made his debut in the 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday and Keane was impressed with the Dubliner.
“Darren did very well, he was touch and go to come on for the second half because he’s got concussion,” said Keane after the game. “He’ll have to see the doctor to see whether he’ll be available for Tuesday.
“There was no way he wanted to come off, he’s a good character and I thought he made some good tackles right in front of our supporters. They’ll appreciate that.
“Darren should be pleased. He’s had a good week at the club and I’m very pleased with him. He’s a good kid.”
Concussion is unlikely to prevent O’Dea joining up with Given and Trapattoni next Monday as Ireland begin preparations for their opening qualifier against Armenia in Yerevan on September 3rd.
Ireland’s second game is against Andorra in the Aviva Stadium on Lansdowne Road.