Grant’s place in Stoke City goal not a Given

On-loan goalkeeper Lee Grant may have possession of the gloves at the Bet365 Stadium, but the 33-year-old is still in awe of Stoke City colleague Shay Given.

Grant was brought in as cover during Jack Butland’s absence through injury, and is currently Mark Hughes’ choice between the sticks as the Potters look to get out of a sticky situation.

Hughes’ side are currently 19th in the Premier League table and without a top-flight win all season, racking up just three points from their seven fixtures, so far.

Grant has played in their last two fixtures, draws against West Bromwich Albion and Manchester United – where he almost single-handedly earned his side a point – and looks set to be selected for Saturday’s game at home to bottom-of-the-table Sunderland.

But the former Burnley shot-stopper knows that even in Butland’s absence, Given is pushing him all the way.

Photo by Lynne Cameron/Getty Images

“Shay is someone who I have so much respect for because of the career he has had and is still having,” said the Derby County man.

“He’s somebody that I actually look up to now and think that if I can maintain my physical shape the way he does then I might have a chance of playing at 40 also.

“I think competition is a positive for any goalkeeper because you will always perform to your best and you are always pushing and challenging yourself.

“Fortunately, it’s me that’s playing at the moment but that’s not to say I’m expecting to play this weekend.

“It’s a job we all work hard at Monday to Friday in order to be in contention for the number one shirt.”