Hart pays tribute to Given

Soccer : England goalkeeper Joe Hart has signed a new five-year contract with Manchester City

Carlos Tevez arrives back at Manchester City after his summer break. - (Photograph: Phil Noble/Reuters)
Carlos Tevez arrives back at Manchester City after his summer break. - (Photograph: Phil Noble/Reuters)

Soccer: England goalkeeper Joe Hart has signed a new five-year contract with Manchester City. The 24-year-old, who fought off the challenge of Shay Given to establish himself as first choice, has committed himself to the club until 2016.

He told the club's official website: "I'm absolutely delighted to have signed a new deal and it is a very exciting time to be a City player.

"I can't think of myself being anywhere other than City and it really feels like home. I feel very privileged to be staying here for another five years.

"I've got a lot of love for this club, the way we're moving forward and for the fans who have been fantastic towards me from day one."

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Hart joined City from Shrewsbury for £600,000 in 2006 and has also taken over the position as England first-choice goalkeeper.

He set a new club record for clean sheets last season, and has paid tribute to Given's influence - the Republic of Ireland stopper has now moved to Aston Villa.

Hart added: "When I signed from Shrewsbury it was always my aim to become the number one here and I was prepared to do anything to achieve that, including going out on loan a few times to prove my worth.

"Shay's influence on me has been massive and being able to work alongside him has brought my game on tremendously.

"I've lost a close friend and a fantastic team-mate but I'll keep in touch and talk with him on a regular basis."

Carlos Tevez arrived back at Manchester City's training ground this morning with his future still uncertain.

The Argentina striker arrived at the Carrington training ground as a passenger in a black Hummer, and exchanged an embrace with a security guard before going into the complex.

Tevez has made no secret of the fact that he wants a move. Brazilian side Corinthians failed in a bid last month and Inter Milan looks to be the most likely destination for the player.