Given eyeing Toon exit - TalkSoccer

**kennethlindheim** · 14-12-2004, 08:44 AM

Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given is thought to be eyeing a move away from the Tyneside club.

Reports in England have suggested that the Republic of Ireland number one is becoming increasingly disillusioned with the form of his defenders this season.

The Magpies, along with bottom club West Bromwich Albion, have conceded more goals that any other side in The Premiership and the 28-year-old seems ready to make a fresh start after more than seven seasons at St James' Park.

Despite having two-and-a-half years left on his Newcastle contract, Given is thought to be keen for manager Graeme Souness to accept a suitable offer for his services from other interested parties.

Premiership rivals Manchester United and Arsenal are thought to be interested in luring the Irishman away from the North East, and it remains to be seen if Newcastle can satisfy Given by convincing him that his future remains on Tyneside.

How very gutting.

CJ Revo · 14-12-2004, 08:53 AM

I'm really suprised about this. I think Given is a terrific goalkeeper. I think you fans and the club are gna be really let down if he leaves.

**kennethlindheim** · 14-12-2004, 12:04 PM

Don't blame him but still::upset::

If he does go, I hope he goes abroad,don't think I can bear to see him in a Man Utd/Arsenal/Liverpool top.

Mat · 14-12-2004, 04:29 PM

To be honest, he has been very poor this season, he has weaknesses, command of area and catching, but it has been his strengnth in shop stopping that has been way way below standard. ALthough i would be hugely disappointed to see him leave, he will not be as badly missed as he would have been the last 3 seasons. But as kenneth said i would hate to seem him performing for man u arsenal or liverpool as he has been an outstanding player of the club, i just hope he gets back to his very best.

toniq · 15-12-2004, 03:26 AM

Apparently fat fred made a remark saying that Given "is not for sale and that's the end of the story". It might be a relieve for us, but on second thought he said the same thing during Woodgate's transfer speculations, and where is Woodgate now? Hope he's staying.

**kennethlindheim** · 15-12-2004, 07:42 AM

Given has been one of the best keepers in the premiership for a long time.We must keep hold on him though,especially with our defense.

Mat · 15-12-2004, 04:25 PM

I hope we keep on to him for the same reason, all i am thinking tho is that he has been severely off form this season and unless he gets back to it, we may be able to get a better keeper if sold, however on form he is superb.

Nice avatar btw kenneth