Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni now has doubts as to the international futures of Robbie Keane and Richard Dunne in the wake of Shay Given's retirement.
Although confirming he is available in an emergency, it is fair to say Given is unlikely to add to his record 125 caps spread over more than 16 years. Given's decision has now prompted unease in Trapattoni's mind as to captain Keane and defender Dunne especially.
Trapattoni said: "Richard sent me a message recently saying he would not be ready for the game with Kazakhstan because he needs a few weeks to recover from his injury, that the game was too soon. I answered him and said after this friendly, after he has recovered from his injury, we would review the situation, but I've told him we need him, it's true. He will let us know."
He added: "As for Robbie, I've also sent him a text, but he's not answered me. I've checked my mobile.
"I will speak with him before I announce my next squad (in around 10 days' time for the Kazakhstan game).
"He needs to tell me whether he wants to come back or what he wants to do.
"We can decide after this game because it's important for us to look at the other players. We have (Shane) Long, (Simon) Cox and (Jon) Walters.
"After this game, and before the one with Kazakhstan, we can think about this situation."
Source: PA
