Shay Given Couldn’t Resist Asking Liam Delap About His Ireland Ambitions

Shay Given couldn’t resist asking Liam Delap the question plenty of Ireland supporters would like answered during an appearance on BBC’s Final Score.

The striker was speaking after scoring his first Nottingham Forest goal in Saturday’s 2–1 victory over Aston Villa.

Having discussed Delap’s move from Chelsea and his desire to play regularly, Given changed the subject to international football, bringing up his own connection with the striker’s father, Rory.

“I was gonna ask you on a side note, Liam, any chance of playing for Republic of Ireland?” Given asked.

“You know, I played with your dad a few times.”

Delap smiled before replying

I don’t know, I don’t know.

It was a brief exchange, with the striker offering no commitment on his international future. Given’s interest in getting him into a green jersey, however, is well established.

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In August 2024, shortly after Delap joined Ipswich Town, Given urged Heimir Hallgrímsson to pursue him. Speaking on Premier Sports, he highlighted the forward’s pace, strength and finishing as reasons Ireland should try to recruit him.

The FAI’s interest stretches back further still. In May 2021, then Ireland under-21 manager Jim Crawford publicly discussed making contact with Delap, who was coming through at Manchester City, and pointed to his family’s Donegal connections.

Delap continued through England’s underage system, representing them up to under-21 level and winning the European Under-19 Championship in 2022. He remains eligible for Ireland through his family.

As recently as April, Ireland’s management were still holding out hope of persuading him to declare. John O’Shea had been in contact with Rory to express the FAI’s interest, while Hallgrímsson stressed that the decision belonged to Liam. Delap had previously expressed a preference for England, but Ireland had not abandoned their pursuit.

Liam’s father Rory won 11 senior caps for Ireland between 1998 and 2004. He made his debut against the Czech Republic in March 1998 and started both legs of the unsuccessful Euro 2000 play-off against Turkey in November 1999.

Born in England to Irish parents, the midfielder became particularly well known for his long throws during his time at Stoke City.

Rory has also addressed his son’s international future directly. Speaking to FourFourTwo in August 2025, he confirmed that Liam had spoken to people representing both countries, while explaining that England had supported him since his early teenage years but said it was entirely up to Liam.

Given’s latest attempt to get an answer brought a smile from Delap. Ireland supporters will have to wait a little longer for anything more definite.

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