Shay Given ruled out of Euro 2016 play-offs

Shay Given will sit out Ireland’s Euro 2016 play-off against Bosnia and Herzegovina next week - having undergone an operation on his knee.

Given has not featured for club or country since limping off during Ireland’s 1-0 win over world champions Germany last month in Dublin.

He was replaced in that game by West Ham's Darren Randolph who gave a solid account of himself between the sticks, as well as providing an assist for Shane Long's winner with a long clearance.

Given said on Friday that he is hopeful the team can rally together for the November 13th and 16th fixtures, despite a lengthening injury list.

“I’m gutted not to be able to play but I’ll be there in spirit,” Given told Talksport radio.

“If we can get a draw out there in Bosnia, we’ve every chance of qualifying. The second leg back in Dublin will be a massive occasion with a huge atmosphere.

“Our only problem is the few injuries and suspension. But I suppose that’s what the squad is for.”

The 39-year-old's club manager at Stoke, Mark Hughes, had last week raised concerns over Ireland's record cap holder when he told reporters that his goalkeeper had suffered a set back during training.

“I chipped a bone in the match against Germany. Although it had really settled down well, I had a reaction in training and then the operation on Wednesday,” Given said on Friday. “He (the surgeon) took some bone out hopefully it will settle down.”

John O'Shea, despite being passed fit to play for Sunderland this weekend, is along with Jon Walters suspended for the first leg on Friday week.

While management are also sweating over Shane Long's availability, after Southampton manager Ronald Koeman told the media that his striker would be better off sitting out the international break to make a full recovery from his injured ankle.