Injury boost for Given

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given is heading back from London after being told he can resume training next week.

The 36-year-old Aston Villa man flew to England on Thursday to consult a specialist over his knee injury, and he confirmed the diagnosis of the Republic's own medical staff and approved their plan for his recovery ahead of Euro 2012.

A spokesman for the Football Association of Ireland said: "Shay Given is on his way back from visiting his specialist in London. The specialist has been in contact with the Irish medical team and agrees with their diagnosis and recovery management plan. Shay is expected to return to full training on Wednesday."

Copyright (c) PA Sport 2012, All Rights Reserved.