SHAY GIVEN MAY GET a chance to showcase his Euro 2016 credentials in Stoke City’s final Premier League game next weekend.
Given sustained a groin injury in Stoke’s defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
While there were fears that his season was over, the Liffordman having also aggrevated a knee injury, Stoke manager Mark Hughes is hopeful of his availability next weekend.
Given won’t play in Stoke’s game at Crystal Palace this weekend, but could feature against West Ham United in the final game of the season on Sunday-week.
“The knee was the worry but it is okay,” Hughes confirmed.
“He is not fit for this weekend but possibly next. He will be fit and available and well, if Ireland want him.”
An appearance in the 4-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur was Given’s Premier League debut for Stoke and his first outing of any sort since damaging a knee during Ireland’s Euro 2016 qualifier against Germany in October.
Injuries to Jack Butland and Rob Elliott opened the door for Given, whose latest set back represented a massive blow.
Irish boss Martin O’Neill indicated that he wanted a ‘fresh look’ at Given – and he could get that chance next weekend.
