Manchester City boss Mark Hughes has already given Shay Given a peptalk after his World Cup heartbreak this week.

Given was in the middle of the Republic of Ireland's storm with France captain Thierry Henry.

Hughes told City's website: "I've spoken to Shay and it's all a little bit raw for him at the moment. The decision's been made and he's lost the opportunity of this World Cup, which is a shame.

"It's not over for him. He's got to stay clear of injury but I can see him being the Irish goalkeeper for many years after this World Cup. He's a fit guy who works exceptionally hard.

"If he continues to keep up his current levels, there's no reason why he can't be around for the next two World Cups.

"The thing for him now is to concentrate on his club football. You pick yourself up very quickly, and Liverpool at Anfield is the ideal game for him to focus his mind."