Shay Given - calm presence in goal (Allsport).
SHAY GIVEN
Position: Goalkeeper
Born: 20.04.76
Club: Newcastle United
Reliable keeper who has made the goalkeeping jersey his own with the Republic thanks to some fine displays. The Newcastle United shot-stopper began his career in Scotland with Glasgow giants Celtic, but had to move south to make it big.
He failed to make a real impact at Blackburn, but it was while at Ewood Park that his fortunes began to change.
A loan spell with Sunderland during the 1995-96 season saw him spring to national prominence.
Given was superb as he helped Peter Reid's side win promotion to the Premiership and that earned him a Republic call-up.
He won his first cap against Russia at Lansdowne Road in March 1996, and hasn't let his country down since.
His form eventually won him a lucrative move to Newcastle, and despite some ups and downs on Tyneside he's made himself a regular choice at St James' Park.
Good shot-stopper who isn't the tallest of keepers.
Was especially impressive in the two play-off games against Iran which took the Republic through to this summer's finals.
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