Shay Given did not train with his Republic of Ireland team-mates on Saturday morning.

The 36-year-old goalkeeper walked around the pitch at the Stadio Comunale in Borgo A Buggiano as his team-mates went through their paces. However, the early indications were that his absence was as a result of blisters rather than anything more sinister.

Given only returned to training on Thursday after resting the knee problem which last week prompted a visit to a London specialist. He later revealed his relief, admitting the prospect of missing UEFA EURO 2012 had crossed his mind.

Ireland face Hungary in Budapest on Monday in their final friendly before the tournament begins, and manager Giovanni Trapattoni indicated earlier this week that he would expect both Given and defender John O'Shea, who has been working his way back from an ankle problem, to play and prove their fitness.

Trapattoni later insisted his absence was indeed due to blisters rather than a recurrence of his knee injury. Asked about the blisters, the Italian said: "Yes, a little bit, but it was better also to let him have a rest because he has worked too much, and it is better that he is fresh, and also mentally fresh."