Given eyes new deal

NEWS: The Republic of Ireland and Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given is ready to commit his long-term future to the club.

The 25-year-old has opened talks with United over a new deal, which it is understood will run until 2008, after completing a remarkable turn around in his fortunes.

Given submitted a transfer request last January after losing his place in the first team to Steve Harper, an action he now admits was not the best move he has made during his five years on Tyneside.

That was immediately rejected by the Magpies' board, and having regained his place and a level of performance which has thrust him into the limelight in recent months, he is now looking to cement his ties with Tyneside.

"My contract is up next year and it would be good to get something sorted out," he said.

"We had a meeting last week on the contract talks. I want to stay here for most of the rest of my career. I am only 25 and, as long as the club wants me, the new contract will be signed." That will come as a huge boost to manager Bobby Robson, who firmly believes his two frontline goalkeepers as a pair are as good as anything in the Premiership.

Lifford-born Given was signed by former boss Kenny Dalglish in the summer of 1997 when he swooped to capture his £1.5 million signature from under the noses of local rivals Sunderland, where he had played a key role in their return to the top flight on loan.

Dalglish's successor Ruud Gullit threw his future into doubt when he first promoted Harper to the number one spot and then signed Dutchman John Karelse. But Given has established himself as first-choice under Robson, but insists the pressure imposed upon him by Harper is a major motivating force.

The former Blackburn player's form has been outstanding for both club and country this season.

His brilliance in the two-legged World Cup qualifier against Iran helped the Republic of Ireland through to this summer's finals, while he recently wrote himself into Geordie folklore with an outstanding display to deny Sunderland, and in particular England striker Kevin Phillips, to pave the way for a famous derby victory at the Stadium of Light.