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Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given is determined to put the disappointment of missing out on a late move to Liverpool behind him and concentrate on regaining the number one spot at Villa Park, the Express reports.
Once thought of as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League in his days at Newcastle, the 37-year-old lost his starting spot early last season to Brad Guzan, and the American’s impressive performances meant Given was forced to see out the rest of the campaign from the bench.
Having been relegated to cup duty by manager Paul Lambert, the Republic of Ireland international’s prospects now seem to be even bleaker thanks to the summer arrival of youngster Jed Steer from Lambert’s former club Norwich City.
Given was linked with a shock transfer deadline day move to Liverpool, but the deal failed to materialise.
“As a footballer, as a player, that’s all you want to do – play in front of big crowds, to show people you’ve still got the ability to play, hopefully in the Premier League,” Given told the Birmingham Mail.
“It’s just frustrating that I’m not playing and it’s hard to keep training and know there’s no game at the end of the week.
And Given has suggested that he has not deserted the hope of featuring in the first team again and will be ready to fight for his place in the squad to put pressure on Guzan.
“I’m fit as a fiddle, I feel really sharp and I’m just raring to get the chance if it comes along.
“Things can quickly change in football – injuries, suspensions, you never know – so if I do get my chance, then I’ve got to be ready to take it.”