Ireland’s old guard axed

Giovanni Trapattoni

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has dropped veteran trio Robbie Keane, Shay Given and Richard Dunne for next month’s friendly against Serbia in the aftermath of his side’s Euro 2012 flop.

Trapattoni will leave the three experienced stars at home when his squad flies to Belgrade for its first match since a disappointing Euro campaign. The Italian coach has not completely called time on the international careers of LA Galaxy striker Keane, 32, Aston Villa goalkeeper Given, 36, and Villa defender Dunne, 32, but he is keen to take a closer look at some of his country’s young prospects.