The former Bury number one has been struggling with a thigh injury and complained of a niggle in the pre-match warm-up against Fulham on Saturday, prompting Neil Warnock to promote Ian Bennett to the bench as a precaution.
Despite feeling uncomfortable, Kenny performed heroically in United’s defeat, denying Fulham late on to keep the scoreline respectable at 1-0. Though coming through unscathed Kenny has decided to take no chances and benefit from a fortnight’s rest before the visit of Blackburn to Bramall Lane – a crucial fixture for United.
Kenny replaced the Republic’s regular keeper Shay Given for the friendly against Holland earlier this month. However, his sixth cap was one to forget, as Holland put four goals past him on their way to an easy victory.
Given has since returned to fitness and played in Newcastle’s midweek defeat to Aston Villa. He would likely have regained his place between the sticks for Ireland at Kenny’s expense.
Kenny, who has shed weight in the Summer, has been in fine form as Sheffield United bid to extend their stay in the Premiership beyond a season.
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