GIVEN SATISFIED

The goalkeeper of Aston Villa, Shay Given, has said that he is satisfied with his performance in the FA Cup match against Ipswich Town and he hopes that he would get another starting opportunity in Tuesday’s Capital One Cup match against Bradford City.

Given has not started too many matches for Villa in the ongoing season. He has been given starting opportunities in only a couple of Premier League matches so far in this season. He had started the season as the first choice goalkeeper for Paul Lambert, but, after his disappointing performances in the first few games, the American goalkeeper, Brad Guzan took his place.

However, in the FA Cup match against Ipswich town, Given looked in fine form. He made two brilliant saves and helped his team securing a victory. After his impressive performance against Ipswich, he is expected to be included in the starting XI again in the next match against Bradford City.

When asked if it’s frustrating to sit on the bench in most of the matches, Given said, “Yes, it is a bit frustrating. As a player, you don’t want to watch the proceedings from outside. You want to be out there on the field stopping balls for your team. But, it happens in team sports. When you lose form, you have to sit out. I wasn’t in the best of forms at the start of the season and that’s why I lost my place.”

“It’s nice that I am back. I am pretty happy with the way I performed against Ipswich Town. I didn’t make too many mistakes and hopefully, the manager would give me another go against Bradford City.”

There have been a few reports that Given wants to play for his national side Ireland again. When asked about that, Given said, “I haven’t taken any decision yet. I need to talk to the manger of the Ireland team before announcing anything. But, it’s something which is in my mind at the moment.”