Shay Given - When Irish Eyes Are Crying

Last updated : 05 March 2010 By Footy Mad - Editor

NU

Former Toon goalkeeper Shay Given is dreaming of bringing the curtain down on his international career at a major tournament, and admits he is still hurting that he won't be going to South Africa.

Given, 33, broke Steve Staunton's international appearance record when he featured in the 2-0 defeat by Brazil at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.

Ireland have been grouped with Russia, Slovakia, Macedonia, Armenia and Andorra in the European Championship qualifiers, and reaching the finals could provide Given with the perfect platform to sign off.

Given: "I never thought I would make three caps, no matter 103.

"You can only go on how you are feeling at the time, and at the moment I am feeling great.

"Obviously I wanted to go to South Africa, but that was taken away from us, and I would like to see another campaign through, and we will see after that.

"If you look at the draw we have been given for the European Championships, then we have got a chance.

"We are really going to have to go for it and hopefully I can end the career at a major championships."