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Stoke goalkeeper Shay Given's injury 'not serious'

Manchester City's Sergio Aguero and Stoke City's goalkeeper Shay Given
Image: Shay Given is challenged by Sergio Aguero during Saturday's match against Manchester City

Stoke City goalkeeper Shay Given's groin injury is not as bad as first feared.

The Republic of Ireland international had to be substituted at half-time during the 4-0 defeat at Manchester City on Saturday, prompting fears that he could miss Euro 2016 in France this summer.

Sky sources understand that Given's injury is not serious, though, and it was merely a reaction to playing two matches in a week following on from the 4-0 home defeat to Tottenham on Monday.

Stoke have already lost first-choice goalkeeper Jack Butland this season after he was injured during England's victory in Germany last month.

Jakob Haugaard originally deputised for Butland but he was replaced by veteran Given after conceding six goals in two matches.

However, the 23-year-old was back in goal for the second half at the Etihad Stadium after Given left the field during only his second Premier League appearance of the campaign.

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Stoke goalkeeper Shay Given
Image: Given could be back in goal against Sunderland on Saturday

Stoke are hopeful that Given, who is only the 14th player in Premier League history to start a game aged 40 or over, will now be fit to play next Saturday when Sunderland visit the Britannia Stadium. 

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