Given told RTE: “The country is in safe hands.

“I have been very impressed by him since he has come into the squad.

“Clubs will be looking at him in the summer as I believe his contract is up and no disrespect to Coventry, but he can move to a bigger club.

“The whole country will be behind him and the team on Saturday.”

The Republic head into the game sitting in second place behind Group B leaders Russia, but level on points with Armenia and Slovakia after four games.

Given said: “We have got to win and get three points if we are realistic about qualifying.

“It’s been too long since we were at a major finals. The nation needs a pick-up and the best way of doing that is by qualifying.

“We have a realistic chance, but it will be tough. Worst-case scenario, we make the play-off and get a favourable draw.”

Given, 34, has been a mainstay of the national team for the last 15 years, but will be a frustrated bystander at the weekend because of a troublesome shoulder injury.

With Joe Hart having also usurped him at City, the last year or so has proved a difficult spell for the former Newcastle keeper, although he is far from ready to give up the fight for his place.

He said: “I saw the specialist in London on Wednesday and he’s happy. I’m upping the rehab and doing more strength work.

“I hope to be back playing by the end of April. We have some Ireland games too in May and the big one in June.

“It’s been extremely frustrating. I haven’t played enough this season and to top it off, I got injured when I wasn’t even playing.

“But I will get my head down, won’t feel sorry for myself and try be positive. Anything can happen in football – Joe might get injured or suspended and I have to be ready to step in.”