• Premier League

Given feeling sharp despite lack of game time

ESPN staff
February 8, 2011
Shay Given has spent much of the season warming the bench at Manchester City © Getty Images
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Manchester City keeper Shay Given is hoping the hard work in training will make up for lack of match action when he lines up for Republic of Ireland.

The former Newcastle stopper has been forced to play second fiddle to Joe Hart this season, and has been restricted to appearances in the Europa League and Carling Cup. With just four matches under his belt for City this term, Given has been putting in the hard yards in training, and he is confident his effort will have paid off.

"It's not an ideal situation not playing at [City] but you've got to make the most of it, work hard in training," Given told Sky Sports News. "It's nice to get away and to have chance of playing again - all you want to do is play football.

"I've been training hard at the club and training more than I normally would if I were playing because you are training when the lads are doing recovery days. I'm not match sharp I wouldn't have thought, but I'm feeling pretty sharp now."

With City boss Roberto Mancini keeping faith with Hart despite a shaky run of form for the England No. 1, Given is relishing the chance to get a run-out for his country.

The likes of Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard and Cesc Fabregas have pulled out of international duty with minor injury niggles and illness, but the prospect of 90 minutes with Ireland is a welcome change for Given.

"The most important thing is to get a game again," he said. "I've missed the buzz and excitement of match day preparation and just being involved in the playing situation - that's the bit you miss the most."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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