Stoke’s new No.1 is not taking anything for Grant-ed

Lee Grant’s possession of the No.1 jersey at Stoke appears to be safe in the absence of Jack Butland after his superb performance against Manchester United before the international break.

But the 33-year-old admits he has looked to another Potters stopper – Shay Given – for inspiration since joining on loan from Derby.

Grant replaced Given in the starting line-up last month and was named man-of-the-match at Old Trafford as Stoke came away with a point.

And with the injured Butland not set to return until the start of next month, Grant is set to remain the man between the sticks in the interim.

 (Photo by John Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images)

However, Grant is taking nothing for granted with Republic of Ireland legend Given for competition.

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

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

“Shay is someone who I have so much respect for because of the career he has had and is still having.

“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.”