Given raring to go

After a frustrating final season at Manchester City, Shay Given said he is excited about a fresh start with new club Aston Villa.

The 35-year-old was unveiled at Villa Park on Tuesday after signing a five-year deal with the English Premier League club, with his move from City reportedly costing about 3.5 million pounds.

The Republic of Ireland international made just four appearances for Roberto Mancini’s side last term in a frustrating finish to his time at Eastlands, but said he was confident of rediscovering his best form for his new club.

“It was frustrating training with no chance of playing. The manager made a decision though and you have to respect that decision and Joe Hart had a fantastic season,” Given said.

“It is frustrating because it’s difficult to train and not play at a weekend and that was the biggest thing, missing the buzz of match day and playing. So I’m excited about getting going again now.”

“I think my confidence is OK because the Ireland games kept me going.”

“You do get a little bit rusty because you’re not playing so many games, but I’m excited to be getting back and getting match-sharp again.”

Given said he appreciated the faith shown in him by chairman Randy Lerner and manager Alex McLeish by giving him a five-year deal, and said he did not think the long-term contract came with any extra pressure.

“I’m not frightened by the five years, I’m quite excited by the situation and I’m looking forward to having a great spell at Aston Villa,” Given said.

“You look at Brad (Friedel), who is 40 and just signed a two-year contract at Tottenham and Edwin van der Sar who was 40 last season and had one of the best seasons of his career.”

“I think especially in terms of goalkeeping, age is all but a number and for me personally I want to play football as long as I can.”

“I had a year off last year so I can add a year on at the end I suppose. I’m really excited about the challenge ahead.”

Given becomes the first signing of McLeish’s tenure at Villa, and the manager said he had no doubt the move would prove to be a success.

“Shay was a long-term target and he has huge experience, international experience,” McLeish said.

“Having done diligence on Shay over the years, I know what kind of character he is as well.”

“I felt he had the gravitas to come and play here. Many other goalkeepers we looked at had that, but I just felt that Shay had the nod over them.”