Keane hails Given as 'the best ever'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Petr Cech's face beams out from billboards here and it takes a brave man to suggest that the Czech Republic and Chelsea No 1 has any rivals for the title of best goalkeeper in the world.
But the Republic of Ireland captain, Robbie Keane, has added spice to the build-up to his side's crucial Euro 2008 qualifier tonight by insisting Shay Given's abilities surpass those of Cech. Given had kept three consecutive clean sheets for the Republic prior to Saturday's fine performance in the 2-2 draw in Slovakia.
Keane said: "Cech is one of the best goalkeepers in the world but we are quite lucky in that we have the best in Shay Given. Cech is [in a] different class but Shay Given is one of the best goalkeepers I have ever seen."
Given's night will be made easier by the absence of the Czech talisman Jan Koller, who is suspended. Milan Baros is expected to play.
The Irish stand three points behind the second-placed Czechs and know they need a win to maintain realistic qualification hopes.
But Steve Staunton's men go into the game with the incentive of knowing that victory would be enough to take them above their rivals on head-to-head.
Andy Reid is expected to come in for Stephen Ireland. Reid produced a superb performance in last month's friendly win in Denmark but was on the bench in Bratislava largely due to the pitch. The surface in Prague should be more to his liking.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments