After Euro 2016, the Robbie Brady-Jeff Hendrick generation were expected to lead Ireland into the new era.
But based on an underwhelming 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign so far, it's clear that the generation which included Robbie Keane, Damien Duff, Shay Given and Richard Dunne is still missed.
Given was in town today for the launch of the eir Sport pack and Nathan caught up with him in the wake of Ireland's costly defeat to Serbia, which leaves the Boys in Green with a tall order to pull off qualification for a playoff spot.
Given addressed the issue of replacing more successful generations of players.
"That's the concern for all Irish fans. Obviously the media after the Georgia game - and even before the Georgia game - there was a lot of hype around Wes Hoolahan because of the kind of player he is and he gets on the ball a lot. But you look at that and he's 35 years of age, he's not 25 coming into his prime," said the former Ireland goalkeeper.
Pictured at the eir Sport pack season launch was BT Sport football analyst Robbie Savage alongside eir Sport soccer analysts Shay Given, Keith Andrews, Karen Duggan and Kenny Cunningham. eir Sport today announced an exciting line up of live content for the new season on the eir Sport Pack. The UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, the Premier League, rugby’s European Champions Cup, the AIB Club Championships and the Allianz Leagues will all form part of a bumper season ahead ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy
"You mentioned players like Duffer and Dunney, Robbie Keane... the conveyor belt seems to have dried up and it is a big concern. It's a big worry, yeah."
Manager Martin O'Neill had said a 27 year old Keane would have flourished in a match like the Serbia one, and Given feels that it's a reflection of the internationally retired striker "only needing a half chance to score".
Pictured is BT Sport football analyst Robbie Savage, who was appearing to promote the BT Sport line-up on the eir Sport Pack, at eir Group HQ. eir Sport today announced an exciting line up of live content for the new season on the eir Sport Pack. The UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, the Premier League, rugby’s European Champions Cup, the AIB Club Championships and the Allianz Leagues will all form part of a bumper season ahead.
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