David Forde welcomes competition from Shay Given

David Forde says he has no problem with Shay Given trying to take his place in the Republic of Ireland team for this Sunday’s European Championship qualifying game against Poland but that he is happy with own club form for Millwall and eager to retain his place in the national side.

“It’s the manager’s decision at the end of the day,” he says, “all I can do is keep performing and controlling what I do; that’s all I can do really.... the rest is up to the manager and the coaches, they’ll choose what they feel is the best way forward.”

Forde has done well for Ireland but his club side are struggling again in the Championship even if his own form is generally reckoned to have been good. The Galwayman is hopeful that he has impressed Martin O’Neill on the occasions, including last weekend, when he has been along to see him.

If not, he says, he is entirely happy to weigh in behind a rival for the goalkeeper’s jersey with qualification for France next summer the common goal regardless of who gets to play.

“It’s difficult where we are in the league but it was great coming over yesterday and getting involved, just getting that break away.

“I’ve been happy with what I’ve done club wise and it’s just unfortunate to be in the position we’re in. But it’s a different scenario to come over here to the international side, you just want to give your best because it’s your country and it’s what you’ve always dreamt of. It’s a fantastic chance we’ve got to qualify.”

As for the competition amongst the four goalkeepers, he says, “it’s fantastic, we all get on great and at the end of the day we’re all fighting for the one position but it’s good, healthy competition.

“We’re all professionals but we’re all under the one flag and playing for the same team and the same cause, and we’re desperate to qualify for the Euros and get to France.

“He (Given) entitled to do that (eye up his spot in the team). After what he’s done for the country, I’ve a lot of admiration for him; he’s been one of the best players for the country. It’s great that I’ve been playing for the last couple of years or whatever and long may that continue.”