Newcastle United FC

• Nickname:
• Founded:1892
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:
• Capacity:NaN

Joe stands firm over Given

13 Jan 2009 - 08:33:08

Click To Enlarge

Newcastle United boss Joe Kinnear has reiterated his claim that unsettled goalkeeper Shay Given will not be leaving St James' Park this month.

Speaking through his lawyer at the beginning of the month, the Republic of Ireland international revealed he wanted to end his 11-year association with the Magpies.

Given claimed the combination of disappointing performances and off-pitch unrest over the ownership of the club has led to him considering his future on Tyneside.

However, despite reports of interest from Manchester City and Tottenham, Kinnear is adamant the keeper will still be at the club when the transfer window closes.

The Magpies boss also believes Michael Owen will remain at St James' Park until at least the end of the season.

Owen's contract runs out in the summer and the England striker has placed talks over a new deal on hold until the end of the season.

"In my eyes, Shay is still going nowhere," Kinnear told the Evening Chronicle.

"He's got a major role here, as has Michael Owen - and they both proved they are focused and committed to this club."