Six sensational saves from veteran Irish shot stopper Shay Given
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Long-serving Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has been a regular feature in the Premier League for over a decade, and could soon be joining another new club, having already enjoyed successful spells with Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Manchester City.
The Irish stopper has been linked with a move to Stoke City, where he will be reunited with former City boss Mark Hughes at the Britannia Stadium (11/1 with Coral for a top six finish).
France 2005
Given endured much heartache on the international stage with the Republic of Ireland (13/5 to qualify for Euro 2016), especially in that infamous handball defeat to France in 2009.
Although, earlier in his career, Given was also on the losing side to the French in World Cup 2006 qualifying, but his early efforts to deny former Real Madrid playmaker Zinedine Zidane were simply sublime.
Arsenal 2006
Given and Thierry Henry came face-to-face many times in the Premier League, and on this occasion it was the Irishman who came out on top with a delightful low diving save for the Magpies.
Liverpool 2009
In a memorable Toon performance in England’s top-flight, Given continued to deny the onslaught of Liverpool attacks, including a close range strike from Dirk Kuyt, though it was an improvised save with his face.
Sunderland 2012
During his Newcastle days, Given was at his sensational best, highlighted by this incredible save against another one of his former clubs Sunderland.
The Irishman produced this magnificent denial during one of his many Tyne-Wear derby outings, winning over the affections of the Toon faithful.
Leicester City 2015
On the way to their FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal last season, Given made this outstanding acrobatic save to deny Leicester City’s Matty James in their fifth round encounter Villa Park.
Even towards the end of his career, the Ireland stopper can produce superb reflexes, a key reason behind Stoke’s attempts to sign him this summer.
Arsenal 2015
Before being completely outdone in that cup final appearance by the Gunners, the Donegal-born 39-year-old produced this amazing save to thwart a close range header from Arsenal and France defender Laurent Koscielny.
