Euro 2016

Shay Given hoping Republic of Ireland experience pays off at Euro 2016

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 09 June 2016

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given is hopeful that the squad's vast experience will stand them in good stead at Euro 2016 this summer.

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has said that his side's experience should stand them in good stead at Euro 2016 this summer.

Martin O'Neill will travel to France with one of the oldest squads at the tournament, naming 11 players aged 30 or above in his 23-man party.

Given, Robbie Keane and John O'Shea have a total of 388 caps between them, and the 40-year-old believes that such experience could prove to be a good thing.

"Back in 1996, I was delighted to play one game for Ireland, so to think I am still here 20 years later is phenomenal," he told reporters.

"It's great to be here, great to be part of another major tournament, of course, and hopefully it's a successful one. I don't know if it's good or bad when you're the oldest player involved - I never set out to do that. I'm just delighted to be here, to be honest.

"We have got a good experienced squad and we have got some young players coming through as well. We might be the oldest squad at the tournament, but a few of us have been here before and I think that will stand us in good stead."

Given is Ireland's longest-serving international of all time having won his 134 caps over a period of more than 20 years.