Republic of Ireland

Giovanni Trapattoni unsure over Robbie Keane and Richard Dunne

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 14 August 2012

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni fears that Richard Dunne and Robbie Keane could follow Shay Given's example and retire from international football.

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has revealed that he has doubts over the international futures of Robbie Keane and Richard Dunne.

Both players have been mainstays in the Ireland side for over a decade, but another stalwart, Shay Given, yesterday announced his shock international retirement.

Trapattoni has given his senior players extended leave following their Euro 2012 efforts, but fears that they could follow Given's example.

"Richard sent me a message recently saying he would not be ready for the game with Kazakhstan because he needs a few weeks to recover from his injury, that the game was too soon," said the Italian manager.

"I answered him and said after this friendly, after he has recovered from his injury, we would review the situation, but I've told him we need him, it's true. He will let us know.

"As for Robbie, I've also sent him a text, but he's not answered me. I've checked my mobile. I will speak with him before I announce my next squad (in around 10 days' time for the Kazakhstan game). He needs to tell me whether he wants to come back or what he wants to do."

Given retired having made a record 125 appearances for the national side, while Keane and Dunne are on 120 and 76 caps respectively.