Newcastle United Football Club News

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

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

Unhappy Given seeking exit

02 Jan 2009 - 07:33:47

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Goalkeeper Shay Given is considering his Newcastle United future after reaching the "lowest point of his career" during last weekend's thrashing at the hands of Liverpool.

Given, 32, has been with the Magpies for 11 years but claims the combination of disappointing performances and off-pitch unrest over the ownership of the club has led to him considering leaving St James' Park.

The Republic of Ireland international has already been linked with moves to Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal in the transfer window.

Given's bombshell comes just days after Magpies boss Joe Kinnear revealed his determination to keep him at the club.

However, last weekend's drubbing at the hands of the league leaders in which he was outstanding may have been the final act in the keeper's career on Tyneside.

"Shay is very despondent following the very poor performance of the team against Liverpool last weekend," said his lawyer, Michael Kennedy, in a statement.

"It was the lowest point of his football career and a performance that he would not wish to be repeated.

"When he signed a new five-year contract in 2006 it was on the basis that the club would challenge for major honours, but on the present evidence all that he can see ahead with the turmoil on and off the pitch is a battle for survival.

"Having served the club loyally for over 11 years, Shay feels compelled to consider his position in the light of the interest being expressed in him by Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham."

Given has made over 450 appearances for the Magpies since joining from Blackburn Rovers in 1997.