Given to have surgery today

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given will undergo surgery on a troublesome groin injury today.

Given has not played for Newcastle since the 5-1 defeat at Manchester United on February 23rd and will be out for an estimated six weeks after today's operation.

A statement from the club on nufc.co.uk read: "After consultation with Dr Ulrike Muschaweck, Shay Given will have surgery in Munich today to cure his recurrent groin problems.

"He is expected to make a full recovery and will be absent for a six-week period."

Hernia specialist Muschaweck has operated on Michael Owen and Alan Shearer in the past.

If the operation is a success, Given will be available for Giovanni Trapattoni's first game in charge against Serbia on May 24th, though the Italian may not risk his first choice goalkeeper, with Nick Colgan, Paddy Kenny available for selection.

Preston North End's Wayne Henderson is out for the rest of the season with a back injury.

Kenny has not played for Ireland since winning his seventh cap in the 5-2 demolition by Cyprus in the Euro 2008 qualifiers in October, 2006.

Kenny subsequently asked to be omitted from Steve Staunton's squad due to personal problems and has not played for Ireland since.

However, the change of management and the doubts over Given's fitness have prompted him to try and resurrect his international career.

"I am playing well and hopefully the new manager has taken note of that," Kenny said. "With Shay injured there is a chance to show what I can do.

"I love playing for Ireland and it would be a fantastic end to my season if I got the chance to earn another cap."