Shay Given it everything for Stoke

Forty is the new 20 for Shay Given as the Stoke City keeper insists he will be pushing Jack Butland to the wire for a Premier League starting spot.

The former Manchester City and Newcastle United stopper could well be into his final season for the Potters, but there will be no slowing down for the Golden Oldie.

Given recently announced he was hanging up his international goalkeeping-gloves after a 134-cap Republic of Ireland career to concentrate on performing for Mark Hughes’ men in the English top flight.

“I feel sharp and my body feels good so I’m trying to push Jack as hard as I can to get a position in the team,” saidGiven, who is away on pre-season with Stoke in the States.

“Pre-season is going very well over here in Orlando.

“I need to stay professional and work hard every day on the training ground and, with the manager and coaching staff watching, you have to try and impress and show that I still have a lot to offer.”

Shay Given of Republic of Ireland after his team’s 1-0 win against Italy at Euro 2016 (Getty)

Although Butland – who missed Euro 2016 with a fractured ankle sustained in England’s 3-2 win over Germany in March – is almost certain to be Hughes’ first-choice, Given is positioning himself to take advantage of any opportunity.

“If Jack does slip up or get injured then you want to be there and take that position and given the opportunity I still think I can play in the Premier League,” he said.

“I didn’t play many games last year and that was because of Jack.

“I got a few towards the end of the season and particularly the West Ham game (last game of the season) I made some saves that contributed to the victory.

“As I say, this week has gone really well, my body feels great and I’m really looking forward to the new season.”