Goalkeeper Shay Given believes that the time has come for Giovanni Trapattoni to step down as manager of the Republic of Ireland.

The nation are expected to miss out on a place in the World Cup finals in Brazil next year due to their poor campaign in the qualifying stage.

"Trapattoni's had a good reign," Given told talkSPORT. "I just think people are looking for a change, they want someone new in with fresh ideas."

Trapattoni, whose contract expires next summer, will need to lead his team to a result against Austria this evening to keep any hopes of reaching the tournament next year alive.

Written by
Danielle Joynson