Former Sunderland and Newcastle United and Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper Shay Given has defended John O'Shea after he was the subject of criticism from the Sunderland head coach. O'Shea is expected to start for Giovanni Trappattoni in the Republic of Ireland's upcoming World Cup qualifier against Sweden in what will be the Sunderland captain's first game since he was singled out by Paolo Di Canio after the 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace. Di Canio told the media: "Our leader (John O'Shea) didn't react in the way he should. That is terrible because it was a crucial game for us. âThe penalty didn't come from a dangerous situation. It's absolutely poor and not acceptable. It was difficult to see this goal at this level. âJohn O'Shea did something really wrong but he is an experienced footballer. (I'm disappointed) with John O'Shea, but with a few players and there is not the right desire. âThat was a very important game for us. I cannot change the heart of my players" In an interview with Sky Sports News ahead of the Republic's game, Given said: "We all make mistakes and it's about getting your arm round him (O'Shea) and saying 'the next game is the most important one'. "That was a bit strange to read some of his (Di Canio's) comments but John O'Shea is a fantastic player, he's won Premier Leagues, European Cups, FA Cups, no-one needs to speak to John O'Shea about bouncing back from disappointment last weekend. "There's no doubt that John's a fantastically mentally strong player, which I think you need to be after those comments."
Im hoping he plays Roberge and Diakite against Arsenal and they both have stormers. Im sick of this he made a mistake that cost us a goal but its ok cos he won (CARRIED TO) titles at Man Ut. There was probably fans trying to blame Bramble somehow for that **** up at Palace. He's slow, not particularly strong, can't pass a ball and for me he's abit of a liability.
Not sure given said much wrong, he was asked a question he answered, I think a lot of us think pdc airs his washing a little to much. Not a mega fan of O'Shea and like pdc a lot on the whole for balance.
The goal came out of a nothing situation as much as anything. There ought to have been no danger, but we contrived some anyway. JOS's challenge was a bit desperate, but I've seen worse. The penalty was crap, which hurt me more than anything when it went in...
O'shea gives away at least 3 free kicks in dangerous positions every game!! I reall hope whoever comes in for him plays really well and can't be dropped. How far away is Wes brown? Would love it if he comes in for him.
Brown's been injured for what, 9 months? Gonna take him a while to get his match fitness up & by that time, he'll be ****ed again.
Oh well that's alright then. JoS can make all the mistakes he wants and we'll mollycoddle him all because he won lots of silverware at another club! Piss off Given, you concentrate on trying to play 3 games this season.
I'd argue whether he has ever been fit since he came here? We have not managed more than a mere handful (one hand as well) of games in a row for 2 years.
If he volunteered the information then yes, I agree. If he was asked his opinion, and answered honestly, that`s fine. I don`t have a problem with that.
Why is it always down to money, I hate the way us fans use players as scapegoats, yes that word again, but it really is bad management to shout it out to press, in the changing room rip into him, not in front of a camera. Collectively love pdc candidness but not of an individual. Lots of terrible errors in game tbf
I hope Brown is fit soon we look a different side when he is playing, his distribution from the back is superb.
What the hell is wrong with Brown ?, slight bruise I heard !, people played with broken necks, legs, arms and I bet Rooney would have played next Tuesday if allowed. Back in 'the old days' players just got on with it. Next it will be "he has a broken finger nail so I won't risk him !.
