Irish goalie being frozen out at Villa Park.
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Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper Shay Given has been left of Aston Villa’s pre-season tour squad according to The Daily Mail.
The former Manchester City and Newcastle United goalkeeper is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers to have played in the Premier League.
But it appears that carries little weight with Villa boss Paul Lambert, who has left him out of the club’s preparations.
Given has found himself increasingly marginalised recently as Brad Guzan has firmly established himself as the club’s number one.
Given has reportedly been told he is free to find a new club over the summer and is surplus to requirements at Villa Park.
That comes despite Given having three years remaining on his current deal with the club, which sees him pocket a healthy £3 million a year salary.
He joins the ranks of a growing list of established stars who have been shown the Villa Park exit door by Lambert.
Former Sunderland and Tottenham striker Darren Bent looks almost certain to leave the club this summer after he rarely featured last season under Lambert.
Given’s Republic of Ireland compatriot, Stephan Ireland, has also been told that he is free to find new employers.