City boss Roberto Mancinii revealed 110-capped ‘keeper Given has injured the same shoulder which prematurely ended his season last year, when he required an operation in April.
“He has a shoulder problem and this week he will go to the doctor in London to see when he gets surgery,” Mancini said of the goalkeeper who has started just four matches this season.
It means Shay will now miss the forthcoming international match against Macedonia on March 26.
Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni expressed disappointment, adding: “I am disappointed that Shay will not be able to make it for the Macedonia qualifier due to a shoulder injury. Shay’s presence in the squad has always been extremely important and he will certainly be missed.”
It has been a miserable season for the Donegal man after losing his first team place to Joe Hart.
And last week he was left on the bench for a UEFA Cup clash where most people thought he would start.