Toon Player's Hammers' Jinx!

Last updated : 22 January 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

While the Newcastle United goalkeeper had an almost unblemished injury record for years, he once again fell foul to the "Hammers Jinx" on Saturday.

Not only is it a worry for Glenn Roeder, but also Ireland's manager, Stephen Staunton, as Given is ruled out ahead of Ireland's European Championship match against San Marino.

Given was forced off the pitch after 67 minutes with a groin strain. His other injury this season came at Upton Park when he went for a 50-50 ball with Marlon Harewood and came off second best.

Given, a major part of Staunton's plans, has already missed two of Ireland's matches in the current campaign against Cyprus and the Czech Republic last October. Given returned from his 6-week injury to play his first game for Ireland, rather than Newcastle. But as Glenn Roeder said at the time: "he has fully recovered, so he can play for his country".