Controversial soccer pundit Eamon Dunphy has said Shay Given should not wear the Irish number one jersey again.
The RTE analyst claims he cannot forgive the Lifford man for appearing overweight and unfit during the European Championships.
He says that was an unforgivable crime and that Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni must move on in his choice of goalkeeper.
Dunphy’s claims are set to lead to a serious backlash from many fans across Donegal who recently welcomed Shay’s decision to rethink his retirement.
Dunphy said Keiren Westwood should remain as Ireland’s number one goalkeeper after Given’s retirement.
“Given is not in the Villa team and I think we have to be respectful of Westwood, who is the number one goalkeeper.
“I think Given looked overweight and was clearly unfit during the European Championships. I don’t think that’s a forgivable crime. I wouldn’t have him,” said Dunphy.
Loyal Given, 36, retired from international duty after the summer tournament in Poland, where Ireland conceded nine goals in three games.
He finally confirmed at the weekend that he has made himself available for selection to the Republic of Ireland.
Despite Aston Villa dropping into the Premier League relegation zone, Given has been out of favour with boss Paul Lambert, making just two league appearances so far this season.
Westwood has also been sitting on the bench at Sunderland, making just three appearances in total, all coming in the league cup.
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