Giovanni Trapattoni has handed the 33-year-old the armband as recognition for reaching a century of caps, along with full-back Kevin Kilbane who will also hit the milestone. The pair will be only two adrift of Steve Staunton, Ireland's most-capped player.
Given takes the captaincy from Robbie Keane, who may play only one half at Croke Park as Trapattoni attempts to keep his players fresh for next month's play-off.
Given goes into the game knowing he must avoid a second caution of the qualifying campaign if he is to make himself available for the first match of the play-off.
Midfielders Keith Andrews and Aiden McGeady are likely to be rested for just that reason, while striker Leon Best is also on a yellow card.
Kick-off in Dublin is at 7pm.
