Newcastle United Football Club News

• Nickname:Magpies
• Founded:1881
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:St James' Park
• Capacity:52,193

Magpies: Given no surprise

04 Jan 2009 - 10:29:42

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Newcastle assistant boss Chris Hughton said he was unsurprised by another top-drawer performance from unsettled goalkeeper Shay Given in the goalless FA Cup draw with Hull City.

The Republic of Ireland international retained his place in the starting line-up for the third-round trip to the KC Stadium, despite stunning the Magpies with a statement outlining his unhappiness and desire to leave the club earlier in the week.

Given kept the Tigers at bay with a string of impressive saves in an entertaining cup stalemate.

"We have got used to that type of performance from him," claimed Hughton.

"He is a top-quality goalkeeper and a top-quality individual, but we wouldn't expect anything different from him."

The main talking point from the game was a header from Michael Turner which Hull claimed had crossed the line after ricocheting off the woodwork and Damien Duff.

Given claimed the ball on the line and Hughton felt referee Chris Foy was correct not to award a goal.

He added: "I have seen it again and as per normal you look at the reactions of players.

"Their players are always going to see it going over the line and ours could see it for what is was, hit the crossbar, went into Shay Given's hands and certainly not over the line."