Shay Given promoted to Aston Villa coaching staff

Aston Villa have promoted former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given to the coaching staff after suspending two of manager Paul Lambert's backroom team "pending an internal investigation".

Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa are the two coaches who have been stood down by the club, temporarily. at least, but Villa did not reveal the reason(s) why.

Donegalman Given, along with Gordon Cowans, has "been temporarily promoted to assist manager Paul Lambert and his first team coaching staff", according to the club.

Aston villa face Southampton at home on Saturday.

Paul Lambert said: “I’m delighted to have Gordon and Shay to assist me in preparing the team for Saturday which is what the whole group is focussed on.”

Given added: “As players, it’s important that each and every one of us take responsibility right now and I’m delighted to play my part in helping the manager and the team go and try to win on Saturday.”

Given, who retired from international football after Euro 2012,

has been a peripheral and frustrated figure at Villa since his move from Manchester City in 2011. Second choice to Brad Guzan, he has spent a period on loan with Middlesbrough this season.