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Given blow for Newcastle's survival fight

  • Story Highlights
  • Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given has surgery in Germany on groin problem
  • Given is set to be sidelined for six weeks or more as he recovers
  • Newcastle are embroiled in relegation battle in the English Premier League
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LONDON, England -- Newcastle's goalkeeper Shay Given will undergo surgery on his troublesome groin injury in Germany on Tuesday and may not play again this season.

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Given's presence will be missed in the Newcastle goal.

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Given has not played for the north-east of England side since the 5-1 defeat at Manchester United on February 23 and his continued absence will be a blow as Newcastle battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

A statement on the club's Web site confirmed news of his surgery:

"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."

Given has been been blighted by groin problems since a collision with then West Ham striker Marlon Harewood left him with a perforated bowel in September 2006.

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

Owen scored a crucial equalizer for Kevin Keegan's men as they salvaged a 1-1 draw at fellow strugglers Bimingham City on Monday night.

Newcastle are still winless in Keegan's second spell in charge and they face a crucial home match against 19th-placed Fulham on Saturday. E-mail to a friend E-mail to a friend

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