Shay Given

Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given will undergo surgery on him troublesome groin injury in Germany on Tuesday.

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Given has not played for the Magpies since the 5-1 defeat at Manchester United on February 23 and will be out for an estimated six weeks after the operation.

A statement from the club read: 'After consultation with Dr Ulrike Muschaweck, Shay Given will have surgery in Munich today to cure his recurrent groin problems.

'He is expected to make a full recovery and will be absent for a six-week period.'

Hernia specialist Muschaweck has operated on Michael Owen and Alan Shearer in the past.