Shay To Be Fit

Ireland boss Brain Kerr says keeper Shay Given is likely to be fit for his country's crucial World Cup qualifier against Switzerland on Wednesday. Given, who produced a superb display in the 1-0 win over Cyprus on Saturday, sustained a foot injury in training on Monday, and had to undergo an x-ray. "There is no bone damage, but there is some soft-tissue swelling," explained Republic manager Brian Kerr. "We are confident he will be fit to play on Wednesday," he added. Given suffered the injury while playing in a five-a-side match, but confirmed later that he had only suffered bruising. The Newcastle United goalkeeper is expected to be fit to train on Tuesday morning.


Meanwhile, Damien Duff will miss the game at Lansdowne Road because of a knee injury while Kevin Kilbane is doubtful with a 'dead leg'. Full-back Stephen Carr has recovered from a knee injury and Sunderland defender Gary Breen has returned to the squad after missing the victory in Nicosia with a calf problem. Also back in the squad are striker Clinton Morrison and midfielder Andy Reid, who were banned for the Cyrpus game. The Republic need to beat the Swiss in their final Group Four game to ensure at least a place in the play-offs.

Good and bad news for Ireland, the good news is that Shay Given will play, the bad news Damien Duff won't play on Wednesday at Landsdowne Road. Given really did win the match for Ireland on Saturday with a penalty save and a superb performance. The Duff injury is a very big blow because he is one of Ireland's key players and without him Ireland will struggle on Wednesday. Good luck to to the Irish boys on Wednesday and fingers crossed they can win and qualify for the World Cup.