Source: SKY_Sports
Given likes Magpies' chances
Shay Given believes Newcastle 'belong' in the Premier League and has backed his former club to win promotion at the first attempt.
The Magpies suffered relegation from the top tier of English football at the end of last season and are now preparing for life in the Championship.
Given, who secured a move to Manchester City in the winter transfer window, expects Newcastle to be one of the strongest teams in the division.
"I know the players are determined to get back where they belong as soon as possible," the goalkeeper told the Evening Chronicle.
"That place is the Premier League. The other major factor is the fantastic support up there.
"They are going to have to add to the squad as well, but they will be in there fighting - and they have a good chance of returning straight away to the top flight."
The ownership of the club remains uncertain and Alan Shearer has yet to indicate whether he would like to stay on as manager at St James' Park.
Given admits it has been a difficult period for the supporters and he hopes they will soon have something to smile about.
"I don't want to say too much on the situation up there because it is bad enough for people. There are not too many positives for the fans right now," he said.
"The sooner the situation is sorted out and the club is sold, the better for the fans.
"I really hope it goes through in the next few weeks, because the sale has gone on for a while now.
"You want it sorted in time for the start of the season."
