Given blow

Last updated : 10 August 2007 By Shamrock
Shay Given is doubtful for the start of the season after pulling a groin in the Sampdoria friendly game at the weekend. He will miss Newcastles trip to Bolton and is out for at least 2 weeks.
 
If it is more serious it will be a big blow to Irelands double header against Slovakia and the Czech Republic from September the 8th-12th.

Geordie manager Sam Allardyce told the Newcastle website:

"He has gone to see a specialist in London because we want to make sure just how much damage has been done.

"He has been for a scan and it doesn't look serious, it's just a slight strain. At the moment we only expect him to be out for a couple of weeks, but we won't take any risks."