:Shay Given

Born in Lifford, County Donegal, Given's footballing career began at local amateur side Lifford Celtic, where he shot to notoriety for conceding seven goals on his debut.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Saturday Interview - Shay it ain't so|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6188688.rovers-saturday-interview---shay-aint/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=25 January 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}} He was propelled into the limelight when he played in an FAI Junior Cup semi-final for Lifford Celtic. At 14, his performances for the club attracted attention from Scottish club Celtic,{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/low/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/924895.stm |title=Given ends rumours and signs deal |publisher=BBC Sport |date=14 September 2000 |access-date=23 December 2008 }} and he was invited to train with their youth side during a pre-season tour of Ireland in 1991. Given signed for the club a year later. Despite being named to the substitutes bench for the Old Firm derby against Rangers on 1 January 1994,{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football-celtic-blame-anticlimax-for-disorder-rangers-rampant-amid-unrest-1397698.html |title=Celtic blame anticlimax for disorder: Rangers rampant amid unrest |newspaper=The Independent |access-date=24 November 2009 |first=David |last=McKinney |date=3 January 1994 |location=London |archive-date=11 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511181042/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football-celtic-blame-anticlimax-for-disorder-rangers-rampant-amid-unrest-1397698.html |url-status=dead }} Given never made a first-team appearance.{{soccerbase|2898}} Retrieved 30 December 2008

His performances for Celtic's youth team did bring him to the attention of Blackburn Rovers manager Kenny Dalglish, and he signed for the English side on a free transfer in the summer of 1994.{{cite magazine|url=http://sports.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/epl/players.asp?player=3238 |title=Shay Given Biography |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=22 December 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708171530/http://sports.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/epl/players.asp?player=3238 |archive-date=8 July 2011 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/PlayerProfiles/0,,10278,00.html |title=Player Profiles: Shay Given |publisher=Newcastle United |access-date=22 December 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080828040233/http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/PlayerProfiles/0%2C%2C10278%2C00.html |archive-date=28 August 2008 }} Given revealed that Celtic offered him a one-year contract to stay at the club before moving to Blackburn Rovers.{{cite news|title=Hot property Shay keen to clarify his position|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6207097.hot-property-shay-keen-clarify-position/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=23 April 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}

The season after Given's arrival saw Blackburn win the Premier League title and Given was unable to oust first-choice goalkeeper and England international Tim Flowers from the team.{{cite web|url=http://www.premierleague.com/page/1994/95Season/0,,12306~1076334,00.html |title=Season 1994/95 |publisher=Premier League |access-date=2 August 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080514133341/http://www.premierleague.com/page/1994/95Season/0%2C%2C12306~1076334%2C00.html |archive-date=14 May 2008 |url-status=dead}}{{cite news|title=Harford on Turf Moor spying mission|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6216840.harford-turf-moor-spying-mission/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=6 November 1995|access-date=1 April 2024}} He made two loan moves to Swindon Town. Given acted as understudy during his first spell at the Wiltshire club, but helped them start their Championship-winning Second Division campaign during the 1995–96 season. He played in five games for Swindon before returning to Blackburn at the end of 1995. Given suffered an arm injury shortly after returning to Blackburn, but it turned out that the injury was "not as bad as first feared".{{cite news|title=Rovers in need of new blood|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6218155.rovers-need-new-blood/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=2 October 1995|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Ray targets Bohinen|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6218106.ray-targets-bohinen/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=3 October 1995|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Chase hotting up for midfield men|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6218059.chase-hotting-midfield-men/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=4 October 1995|access-date=1 April 2024}}

Given was sent on loan again in January 1996, this time to First Division side Sunderland.{{cite news|title=Positive Shearer is looking for a lift-off to Europe|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6213382.positive-shearer-looking-lift-off-europe/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=19 January 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} Given kept 12 clean sheets during his 17 games for the club,{{cite news|title=A God given talent|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6212814.god-given-talent/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=30 January 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Rovers' new £3m man sets double target|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6209098.rovers-new-3m-man-sets-double-target/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=23 March 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/given-in-toon-for-a-title-challenge-1.1051651|title=Given in Toon for a title challenge|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=25 February 2002|access-date=18 August 2016}} and formed part of the team who won promotion to the Premier League as champions.{{cite news|title=Rovers notes|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6206851.rovers-notes/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=27 April 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}

Ahead of the 1996–97 season, Given was linked a move away from Blackburn, with Sunderland trying to re-sign him permanently.{{cite news|title=Reid ready to make move for Given|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6206165.reid-ready-make-move-given/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=8 May 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} However, he stayed at the club throughout the summer transfer window, with manager Ray Harford intended to keep him and told him to challenge Flowers for the first-choice goalkeeper role.{{cite news|title=Given up|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6204948.given/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=23 May 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} Blackburn even offered Given a new three-year contract to stay at the club.{{cite news|title=Head rules heart|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6203799.head-rules-heart/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=11 June 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Shearer returns to Ewood for training|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6200784.shearer-returns-ewood-training/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=26 July 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} However, Given continued to be Blackburn's second-choice goalkeeper behind Flowers.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Injury problems for Harford|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6199568.rovers-injury-problems-harford/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=15 August 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Pick the Flowers, Glenn!|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6189157.rovers-pick-flowers-glenn/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=20 January 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Roy scout!|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6185289.rovers-roy-scout/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 March 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}} He made his debut for the club on 24 September 1996, coming on as an 86th minute substitute in Blackburn's 2–0 win against Brentford in the second leg of the League Cup second round.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Victory, but tie lacks that Coca-Cola sparkle|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6196790.rovers-victory-tie-lacks-coca-cola-sparkle/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=25 September 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} Following an injury to Flowers, Given made his Premier League debut in Blackburn's 1–0 defeat at Wimbledon on 14 December 1996.{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/kinnears-disgust-for-jones-1314705.html|title=Kinnear's 'disgust' for Jones|work=The Independent|date=15 December 1996|access-date=16 August 2016}}
{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Snatch of day|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6191103.rovers-snatch-day/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=16 December 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} He then kept his first Premier League clean sheet in a 0–0 draw against Derby County on 28 December.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: A sheepish Ram raid from toothless Blackburn|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6190382.rovers-sheepish-ram-raid-toothless-blackburn/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=30 December 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} It was later revealed that Given did not sign the contract offered to him and intended to leave at the end of the 1996–97 season due to a lack of first team football.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Tony's Euro dream|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6190163.rovers-tonys-euro-dream/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=2 January 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}} This led him to put a transfer request, even it was unlikely to leave the club in the January transfer window.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Keeper Given puts in transfer request|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6189887.rovers-keeper-given-puts-transfer-request/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=8 January 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}

His performances on loan impressed Kenny Dalglish, who had recently been appointed manager of Newcastle United, and prompted him to sign Given again.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: 'Hands off Given' warns Parkes|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6190311.rovers-hands-off-given-warns-parkes/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=31 December 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Roy scout!|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6185289.rovers-roy-scout/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 March 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}} But the Magpies faced competitions from Sunderland, Celtic, and Liverpool.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Coar hits back over Dalglish attack|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6189128.rovers-coar-hits-back-dalglish-attack/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=20 January 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=North East pair eye Given|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6182299.north-east-pair-eye-given/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=19 April 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Evans joins race for Given|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6181561.rovers-evans-joins-race-given/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=30 April 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}} Given signed for the North-East club in the summer of 1997 for a fee of £1.5 million following an independent tribunal, as Given was under the age of 23 at the time.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Ewood at centre of test case|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6179028.rovers-ewood-centre-test-case/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=31 May 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=ROVERS: No go for Le Saux|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6176238.rovers-no-go-le-saux/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=7 July 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=D-day for birthday boy Roy!|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6173936.d-day-birthday-boy-roy/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=7 August 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}

Given was one of the first signings of then-newly appointed manager Dalglish. Given made his debut in Newcastle's 2–1 home victory over Sheffield Wednesday on 9 August 1997 and immediately established himself in the first team, beating fellow goalkeepers Pavel Srníček, Shaka Hislop and Steve Harper to the position.{{Soccerbase season|2898|1997|name=Shay Given|access-date=15 November 2016}}{{cite news |url=https://www.questia.com/read/1G1-61150547 |title=Football: Magpies show off credentials; Newcastle Utd 2 Sheffield Wednesday 1 |newspaper=The News Letter |date=11 August 1997 |access-date=23 December 2008 }}{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Newcastle advanced to the final of the FA Cup, and Given played the whole match as the team were defeated 2–0 by league champions Arsenal.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/94847.stm |title=Arsenal and Hearts win Cup Finals |publisher=BBC News |date=18 May 1998 |access-date=23 December 2008}} The club also progressed to the final the following year, but Given was replaced by Harper as Newcastle lost 2–0 in the final, this time to Manchester United.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/htmlContent.jhtml?html=/archive/1999/05/23/sfgman23.html |title=FA Cup Final: Sheringham and Scholes make victory look easy |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=23 May 1999 |access-date=23 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080528005152/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/htmlContent.jhtml?html=%2Farchive%2F1999%2F05%2F23%2Fsfgman23.html |archive-date=28 May 2008 |url-status=dead}}

In November 1997, Given conceded a strange goal against Coventry City when, after collecting a cross, he rolled the ball out in preparation to make a long clearance. However, he had forgotten that Coventry striker Dion Dublin was still behind him, and Dublin quickly took advantage of the situation by rolling the ball into the empty net. The coincidence of the goalscorer's name quickly led to the popular joke among football fans that Given "is the only Irishman who doesn't know where Dublin is" and the goal itself is still regularly featured on lists compiled of bizarre goals.{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-most-bizarre-goals-1805555.html?action=Popup&ino=5 |title=The most bizarre goals |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |date=27 September 2010 |access-date=8 October 2010 |archive-date=9 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109091803/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-most-bizarre-goals-1805555.html?action=Popup&ino=5 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/story/686672/footballs-strangest-goals |title=Football's strangest goals |website=ESPN FC |date=18 October 2009 |access-date=8 October 2010}}

Given submitted a written transfer request in December 2000 after failing to regain his place in the first team from Harper after a thigh injury had ruled him out of a match against Leeds United. Manager Bobby Robson stated at the time: "A lot of clubs have a very good goalkeeper and one who stands by. I think we have two keepers — and Harper is proving that — who can play in the Premiership".{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/2996634/Newcastle-turn-down-Given%27s-plea-for-transfer.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120911202638/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/2996634/Newcastle-turn-down-Given%27s-plea-for-transfer.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=11 September 2012 |title=Newcastle turn down Given's plea for transfer |date=16 January 2001 |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |access-date=26 December 2008 |first=Charles |last=Carrick}} The club rejected Given's request and he later withdrew it, stating that his "intention was simply to express [his] frustration at being left out of the team," and that he "never had any intention of actually leaving the club."{{cite web|url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/2001/0123/newcastle.html |title=Given withdraws transfer request |date=23 January 2001 |website=RTÉ Sport |access-date=26 December 2008}} An injury to Harper led to Given being recalled to the first team, and he kept his place for the rest of the season.

In the 2001–02 season, Given played in every Premier League match as Newcastle's previously unexpected title challenge ended in a fourth-place finish in the league. A highlight of the season was Given saving a Fabrizio Ravanelli penalty in a 1–0 win over Derby County on 24 November 2001.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/1671392.stm |title=Magpies stun Rams |publisher=BBC Sport |date=24 November 2001 |access-date=9 September 2016}} Given was selected in the PFA Team of the Year and Newcastle's league position meant that they would enter the qualifying stages of the UEFA Champions League the following season.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/1997863.stm |title=Given's form promise |publisher=BBC Sport |date=20 May 2002 |access-date=24 December 2008}}{{cite web|url=http://www.premierleague.com/page/2001/02Season |title=Season 2001/02 |publisher=Premier League |access-date=25 December 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081104122510/http://www.premierleague.com/page/2001/02Season |archive-date=4 November 2008}}

The next season, Given again found himself competing with Harper. After a 5–0 qualifying round win, Newcastle progressed to the group stages of the Champions League. He played in the first three group matches, all of which Newcastle lost.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/sep/19/championsleague.sport |title=Newcastle headless in Kiev |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Michael |last=Walker |date=19 September 2002 |access-date=29 August 2018}}{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/history/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036455/index.html?iv=true |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830005002/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/history/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036455/index.html?iv=true |url-status=dead |archive-date=30 August 2018 |title=UEFA Champions League: Newcastle 0–1 Feyenoord |publisher=UEFA |access-date=27 December 2008}}{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/history/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036471/index.html?iv=true|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830042907/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/history/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036471/index.html?iv=true|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 August 2018|title=UEFA Champions League: Juventus 2–0 Newcastle |publisher=UEFA |access-date=27 December 2008}} Harper then replaced Given for the next two games.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036487/index.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130619224624/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036487/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 June 2013 |title=UEFA Champions League: Newcastle 1–0 Juventus |publisher=UEFA |access-date=27 December 2008}}{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/history/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036504/index.html?iv=true |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830005238/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/history/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036504/index.html?iv=true |url-status=dead |archive-date=30 August 2018 |title=UEFA Champions League: Newcastle 2–1 Dynamo Kyiv |publisher=UEFA |access-date=27 December 2008}} Given returned for the final group match against Feyenoord in the Netherlands, and Newcastle's 3–2 win meant that they qualified for the second round.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036519/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922055523/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2002/matches/round=1636/match=1036519/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=22 September 2013 |title=UEFA Champions League: Feyenoord 2–3 Newcastle |publisher=UEFA |access-date=27 December 2008}}{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/history/season=2002/round=1636/group=1492.html |title=2002 UEFA Champions League Group E|access-date=21 July 2008 |publisher=UEFA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051021034328/http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/history/season=2002/round=1636/group=1492.html |archive-date=21 October 2005}} Internazionale scored four times past Given as Newcastle lost 4–1 in their opening match in the second group stage.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2002/matches/round=1637/match=1038227/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103222913/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2002/matches/round=1637/match=1038227/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=3 January 2014 |title=UEFA Champions League: Newcastle 1–4 Internazionale |publisher=UEFA |access-date=27 December 2008}} Newcastle conceded a further three times away to Barcelona,{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/dec/11/minutebyminute.sport1 |title=Barcelona 3–1 Newcastle |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Anjana |last=Gadgil |date=11 December 2002 |access-date=29 August 2018}} beat Bayer Leverkusen at home and in Germany (with Given saving an Oliver Neuville penalty in the home tie),{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2003/feb/19/championsleague.sport2 |title=Ameobi keeps Magpies alive |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=19 February 2003 |access-date=29 August 2018}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/2797655.stm |title=Shearer sinks Leverkusen |publisher=BBC Sport |date=26 February 2003 |access-date=27 December 2008}} and drew with Inter at the San Siro, however a 2–0 loss at home against Barcelona meant that the club finished third in their group and failed to qualify for the knockout stages. Given played every game in the second round.{{cite web|url=http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0,,10278~1330153,00.html |title=Modern Magpies 2002/03: Champions League – We Had A Laugh! |publisher=Newcastle United F.C. |access-date=27 December 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112213810/http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0%2C%2C10278~1330153%2C00.html |archive-date=12 January 2009 }} Given played all 38 league games for the club, as well as his twelve European appearances, as the team finished in third place in the Premier League, meaning the club would enter the Champions League qualifying round in the 2003–04 season.

Having finished third in the league in May 2003, Given and Newcastle lost 4–3 on penalties to Partizan Belgrade early in the 2003–04 season, meaning that Newcastle failed to reach the group stages of the Champions League.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/champions_league/3182661.stm|title=Newcastle crash out|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 August 2003|access-date=12 March 2024}} The club instead qualified for the UEFA Cup, where they reached the semi-finals.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/3685411.stm|title=Newcastle's Euro dream over|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 May 2004}} A fifth-place finish in the league meant that the club qualified for the following season's UEFA Cup competition. Given played in every one of the club's league matches for a third successive season, as well as all thirteen European games.{{cite web|url=http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0,,10278~1330154,00.html|title=Modern Magpies 2003/04: Belgrade Blues, Euro Excitement|publisher=Newcastle United F.C.|access-date=27 December 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113005200/http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0%2C%2C10278~1330154%2C00.html|archive-date=13 January 2009}}

File:Shay Given back 2.jpg

After a poor start to the 2004–05 season, Graeme Souness replaced Bobby Robson as Newcastle manager.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/3630952.stm |title=Souness takes Newcastle job |publisher=BBC Sport |date=6 September 2004 |access-date=15 November 2016}} Given overtook Alan Shearer as having played in the most European matches for the club on 16 September 2004 in a game against Bnei Sakhnin,{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/3656126.stm|title=Newcastle 2–0 Bnei Sakhnin|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 September 2004}} and Given's twelve European and three FA Cup appearances helped Newcastle reach the UEFA Cup quarter-final and the FA Cup semi-final.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/4437539.stm|title=Sporting 4–1 Newcastle (agg: 4–2)|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 April 2005|access-date=12 March 2024}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4427549.stm|title=Newcastle 1–4 Man Utd|publisher=BBC Sport|date=17 April 2005|access-date=12 March 2024}} Given missed two Premier League games as the club finished in 14th place.

Although the club entered the Intertoto Cup in the 2005–06 season, a defeat by Spanish club Deportivo de La Coruña meant that they did not qualify for further European competition that season.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4738329.stm|title=Newcastle 1–2 Deportivo (Deportivo win 4–2 on aggregate)|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 August 2005|access-date=12 March 2024}} Given played in all of the club's league matches as they finished in seventh position and he signed a new five-year contract with the club in the summer.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/may/12/newsstory.sport14|title=Newcastle Given another five years|work=The Guardian|date=12 May 2006|access-date=12 March 2024}} His performances for Newcastle led to Given being named in the Premier League's Team of the Season. Given played in all of the club's FA Cup games as they reached the quarter-finals,{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4820138.stm|title=Chelsea 1–0 Newcastle|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 March 2006|access-date=12 March 2024}} and captained the team for three games during Shearer's absence.{{cite web|url=http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0,,10278~1330156,00.html|title=Modern Magpies 2005/06: Al And Owen Record Breakers!|publisher=Newcastle United F.C.|access-date=27 December 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113092421/http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0%2C%2C10278~1330156%2C00.html|archive-date=13 January 2009}}

On 17 September 2006, Given suffered a one-centimetre tear in his bowel after a tackle by West Ham United striker Marlon Harewood. Doctors likened the injury to one more likely to happen in a car crash.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/5359846.stm |title=Given injury likened to car crash |publisher=BBC Sport |date=19 June 2006 |access-date=23 December 2008}} Manager Glenn Roeder signed ex-Newcastle veteran Pavel Srníček as cover for Steve Harper,{{cite news|url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/roeder-happy-to-unveil-krul-intentions-as-harper-injury-adds-to-goalkeeping-problem-d8w8hqpzc98 |title=Roeder happy to unveil Krul intentions as Harper injury adds to goalkeeping problem |newspaper=The Times |first=Peter |last=Lansley |location=London |date=19 October 2006 |access-date=27 December 2008}} and youth goalkeeper Tim Krul played a full match in Newcastle's 1–0 UEFA Cup win at Palermo on 2 November.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/6094258.stm|title=Palermo 1–1 Newcastle|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Saj|last=Chowdhury|date=2 November 2006|access-date=12 March 2024}} Given returned on 18 November for Newcastle's 1–1 draw at Arsenal.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/6138794.stm|title=Arsenal 1–1 Newcastle|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Ian|last=Hughes|date=18 November 2006|access-date=12 March 2024}}

File:ShayGiven.JPG

Given made his 400th appearance for the club on 1 January 2007 in a 2–2 draw against Manchester United.{{cite web|url=http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0,,10278~1330157,00.html|title=Modern Magpies 2006/07: Back in Europe|publisher=Newcastle United F.C.|access-date=27 December 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113052214/http://www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/ClubHistory/0%2C%2C10278~1330157%2C00.html|archive-date=13 January 2009}} He ended the 2006–07 season with 22 league appearances as the club finished in 13th place, and reached the last 16 of the UEFA Cup.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/6449687.stm|title=AZ 2–0 Newcastle (agg 4–4)|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Mandeep|last=Sanghera|date=15 March 2007|access-date=12 March 2024}}

Given's 2007–08 season was prematurely ended by injury in February 2008 when he had a re-occurrence of a previous groin injury in the 5–1 home defeat by Manchester United.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/mar/18/newsstory.sport15|title=Given out for six more weeks after going ahead with operation|work=The Guardian|first=Nicky|last=Bandini|date=18 March 2008|access-date=12 March 2024}}

The opening months of Newcastle's 2008–09 season were blighted by ownership and managerial turmoil, as well as numerous injury problems. This manifested itself on the pitch as the club struggled to direct itself clear of the relegation zone. However, a highlight was Given saving a Kevin Nolan penalty in a 1–0 win over Bolton Wanderers.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7565061.stm |title=Newcastle 1–0 Bolton |publisher=BBC Sport |date=23 August 2008 |access-date=9 August 2016}} On 2 January 2009, following a 5–1 defeat at home against Liverpool, Given's lawyer released a statement saying that Given was "considering his future" at Newcastle,{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/7805887.stm |title=Kinnear rules out Given departure |publisher=BBC Sport |date=2 January 2009 |access-date=3 January 2009}} and requested permission to talk to representatives of Manchester City on 28 January after the club made a bid of £5 million which was subsequently rejected.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/7856463.stm |title=Given 'ready for Man City talks' |publisher=BBC Sport |date=28 January 2009 |access-date=28 January 2009}} Newcastle manager Joe Kinnear had already stated that the club was "not interested at all in selling him", and described the amount on offer for Given as "insulting".{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/7856463.stm |title=Man City's Given bid 'insulting' |publisher=BBC Sport |date=29 January 2009 |access-date=29 January 2009}} However, on 30 January, it was reported that Newcastle had given permission for Given to enter talks with Manchester City.{{cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_4874261,00.html |title=Given can speak with City: Magpies keeper free to discuss potential Eastlands switch |website=Sky Sports |date=30 January 2009 |access-date=30 January 2009}} After a transfer fee initially reported to be around £8 million was agreed between the clubs, Given signed for Manchester City on 1 February, with the transfer window set to close the following day.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/7860365.stm |title=Given completes Man City transfer |publisher=BBC Sport |date=1 February 2009 |access-date=1 February 2009}} Although the fee for Given was expected to be around £8 million, in February 2009, Newcastle managing director Derek Llambias revealed at a supporters panel meeting that Given had been sold for an initial £5.9 million.{{cite news|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/article5672113.ece |title=Shay Given disgusted by Newcastle treatment |newspaper=The Times |first=George |last=Caulkin |location=London |date=6 February 2009 |access-date=27 March 2009}}{{dead link|date=September 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} Given was 34 games away from breaking Newcastle's appearance record held by Jimmy Lawrence.

On 1 February 2009, Given signed for Manchester City on a four-and-a-half-year contract for £6 million.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/feb/01/newcastle-united-shay-given-manchester-city-transfer-completed |title=Given signs for City in £6m deal |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=1 February 2009 |access-date=15 December 2010}} He was formally introduced as a Manchester City player on 5 February 2009, and was assigned squad number 37. In the subsequent press conference, he criticised Newcastle's management for not trying hard enough to keep him at the club.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/7872358.stm |title=Given criticises Newcastle bosses |publisher=BBC Sport |date=5 February 2009 |access-date=22 April 2009}} He also said that "By coming here I thought I could be at a club that is challenging for honours. I didn't want to finish my career regretting not taking up this offer." Given kept a clean sheet in a man of the match performance in his debut, a 1–0 win against Middlesbrough on 7 February.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7867067.stm |title=Man City 1–0 Middlesbrough |publisher=BBC Sport |first=Nabil |last=Hassan |date=7 February 2009 |access-date=9 February 2009}}

File:Shay Given Man City.jpg

With Joe Hart leaving the club on loan, Given was given the squad number 1 for the 2009–10 season. He made his 400th league appearance on 5 October 2009 against Aston Villa.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8283753.stm |title=Aston Villa 1–1 Man City |publisher=BBC Sport |date=5 October 2009 |access-date=24 April 2010 |first=Phil |last=McNulty |authorlink=Phil McNulty}} On 1 November 2009, he saved a James McFadden penalty to help his side draw 0–0 at Birmingham City.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8328092.stm |title=Birmingham 0–0 Man City |publisher=BBC Sport |first=Phil |last=Dawkes |date=1 November 2009 |access-date=30 August 2016}} On 5 December 2009, he made an outstanding penalty save from Frank Lampard to deny Chelsea an equalising goal. City went on to win 2–1.{{cite web|url=http://www.mcfc.co.uk/News/Match-reports/2009/December/City-v-Chelsea |title=City 2–1 Chelsea |publisher=Manchester City F.C. |date=5 December 2009 |first=Chris |last=Bailey |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091223045436/http://www.mcfc.co.uk/News/Match-reports/2009/December/City-v-Chelsea |archive-date=23 December 2009}} The same month, Daily Telegraph football correspondent Henry Winter named Given as "Premier League Goalkeeper of the Noughties".{{cite news|last=Winter|first=Henry|authorlink=Henry Winter|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/6817601/Premier-League-team-of-the-decade-Henry-Winters-Noughties-XI.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091219033047/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/6817601/Premier-League-team-of-the-decade-Henry-Winters-Noughties-XI.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 December 2009 |title=Premier League team of the decade: Henry Winter's Noughties XI |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=16 December 2009 |access-date=24 April 2010}} While team captain Kolo Touré was on international duty, Given was given the captain's armband by manager Roberto Mancini, who described him as "one of the five best goalkeepers in the world".{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/jan/02/roberto-mancini-carlos-tevez-manchester-city |title=Roberto Mancini praises Carlos Tevez and Shay Given |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=2 January 2010 |access-date=24 April 2010 |first=Daniel |last=Taylor |authorlink=Daniel Taylor (journalist)}} He dislocated his shoulder during a match against Arsenal on 24 April, ruling him out for the rest of the season.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/8642223.stm |title=Manchester City rocked by Shay Given shoulder injury |date=24 April 2010 |access-date=24 April 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport}}

On 14 August 2010, Given was dropped from the Manchester City starting eleven for their opening league game against Tottenham Hotspur and replaced by Hart,{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8901397.stm |title=Tottenham 0–0 Man City |publisher=BBC Sport |first=Ian |last=Hughes |date=14 August 2010 |access-date=29 August 2016}} who became City's permanent first choice goalkeeper. Given's only domestic appearance during the 2010–11 season came in a defeat to West Bromwich Albion in the League Cup;{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/9010120.stm|title=West Brom 2–1 Man City|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 September 2010|access-date=12 March 2024}} he also played in three Europa League matches.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/9154974.stm|title=Lech Poznan 3–1 Man City|publisher=BBC Sport|first=David|last=Ornstein|date=22 September 2010|access-date=12 March 2024}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/9243656.stm|title=Man City 3–0 Red Bull Salzburg|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Saj|last=Chowdbury|date=1 December 2010|access-date=12 March 2024}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/9283062.stm|title=Juventus 1–1 Man City|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Jon|last=Barbuti|date=16 December 2010|access-date=12 March 2024}}

On 18 July 2011, Given joined Aston Villa for a fee believed to be around £3.5 million.{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/story/935477/aston-villa-complete-signing-of-goalkeeper-given |title=Villa complete signing of Given |date=18 May 2011 |website=ESPN FC |access-date=18 July 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107075759/http://www.espnfc.com/story/935477/aston-villa-complete-signing-of-goalkeeper-given |archive-date=7 January 2016}} He signed a five-year deal, meaning that he would be 40 when his contract expired.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/14186000.stm |title=Aston Villa set to sign Shay Given from Manchester City |publisher=BBC Sport |date=18 July 2011 |access-date=18 July 2011}} Given made his Villa debut in a pre-season friendly victory over Walsall on 21 July. He was substituted at half time for Andy Marshall, when the score was 2–0 to Villa.{{cite web|url=http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2398830,00.html|title=Match report: Walsall 1–3 Aston Villa|publisher=Aston Villa F.C.|date=21 July 2011|access-date=22 July 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121001000935/http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10265~2398830%2C00.html|archive-date=1 October 2012}} On 13 August 2011, Given played his first Premier League match for Aston Villa against Fulham in a 0–0 draw.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/14429736 |title=Fulham 0–0 Aston Villa |publisher=BBC Sport |date=13 August 2011 |access-date=5 November 2011}} In September 2011, Given was reunited with Terry Gennoe at Aston Villa. After four years out of the game, Gennoe was named as the new first team goalkeeping coach, replacing Rafa González. He had previously coached Given at Blackburn and Newcastle.{{cite news|url=https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-shay-given-delighted-161383 |title=Aston Villa: Shay Given delighted to be reunited with Terry Gennoe |newspaper=Birmingham Mail |publisher=Reach plc |first=Mat |last=Kendrick |date=15 September 2011 |access-date=5 November 2011}} On 3 December, Given suffered a torn hamstring, which sidelined him until January.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/dec/05/shay-given-injury-aston-villa |title=Aston Villa's Shay Given out for month with hamstring injury |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=5 December 2011 |access-date=29 August 2016}}

After a disappointing start to the 2012–13 season, Given lost his first team place to Brad Guzan after two league games. However, on 5 January 2013, he appeared in a 2–1 home win against Ipswich Town in an FA Cup third round match.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/20863510 |title=Aston Villa 2–1 Ipswich |publisher=BBC Sport |date=5 January 2013 |access-date=14 July 2013}} Three days later, Given also played for Villa in a 3–1 away defeat against Bradford City in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final match.{{cite web|first=Phil|last=McNulty |authorlink=Phil McNulty|title=Bradford 3–1 Aston Villa |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/20880586 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=8 January 2013 |access-date=14 July 2013}} Despite winning the second leg 2–1, Villa were eliminated from the competition.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/21022502 |title=Aston Villa 2–1 Bradford |publisher=BBC Sport |first=Phil |last=McNulty |authorlink=Phil McNulty |date=22 January 2013 |access-date=14 July 2013}}

On 15 April 2014, Given was appointed temporary assistant to Paul Lambert after the club suspended Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa, pending an internal investigation for an undisclosed reason.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/27039466 |title=Aston Villa suspend Lambert assistants Culverhouse & Karsa |publisher=BBC Sport |date=15 April 2014 |access-date=15 April 2014}} Given played in all of Aston Villa's FA Cup fixtures that led to an appearance in the 2015 FA Cup final at the age of 39, which Villa lost 4–0 to Arsenal.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/32856754|title=Arsenal 4–0 Aston Villa|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Phil|last=McNulty|authorlink=Phil McNulty|date=30 May 2015|access-date=12 March 2024}} The Cup run began with a 1–0 victory over Blackpool,{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30614386|title=Aston Villa 1–0 Blackpool|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Steve|last=Canavan|date=4 January 2015|access-date=12 March 2024}} and continued with 2–1 victories over both AFC Bournemouth and Leicester City,{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30868889|title=Aston Villa 2–0 AFC Bournemouth|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Phil|last=McNulty|authorlink=Phil McNulty|date=25 January 2015|access-date=12 March 2024}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/31423131|title=Arsenal 4–0 Aston Villa 2–1 Leicester City|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Patrick|last=Jennings|date=15 February 2015|access-date=12 March 2024}} and a 2–0 win over derby rivals West Bromwich Albion.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/31669806|title=Aston Villa 2–0 West Bromwich Albion|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Phil|last=McNulty|authorlink=Phil McNulty|date=7 March 2015|access-date=12 March 2024}} In the semi-final, Villa came from a goal down to defeat Liverpool 2–1, putting the club in their first FA Cup final since 2000.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/32273487|title=Aston Villa 2–1 Liverpool|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Phil|last=McNulty|authorlink=Phil McNulty|date=19 April 2015|access-date=12 March 2024}}

Given joined Middlesbrough on a one-month loan deal on 28 November 2013 as cover for the injured Jason Steele.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/25143739 |title=Shay Given: Middlesbrough sign Aston Villa keeper on loan |publisher=BBC Sport |date=28 November 2013 |access-date=28 November 2013}} Given's initial one-month loan deal was extended to the end of February 2014 and ultimately, he made his last appearance for Middlesbrough on 22 February in a 0–0 draw against Leeds United. Whilst at Middlesbrough, Given kept ten clean sheets in 16 league games.{{cite news|url=http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/shay-given-the-best-keeper-9611282|title=Shay Given: 'The best keeper in the world' and more than slightly superstitious – five facts about the experienced keeper |newspaper=Teesside Gazette |publisher=Reach plc |location=Middlesbrough |first=Dominic |last=Shaw |date=8 July 2015 |access-date=29 August 2016}}

Given signed a two-year contract with Stoke City on 10 July 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.stokecityfc.com/news/article/stoke-city-shay-given-2539538.aspx |title=It's A Given |publisher=Stoke City F.C. |date=10 July 2015 |access-date=10 July 2015}} Given joined as backup to first choice goalkeeper Jack Butland.{{cite news|url=http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Stoke-City-Tour-help-Jack-Butland-rival-says-Shay/story-26886228-detail/story.html|title='I will help Jack Butland – but rival him too,' says Shay Given |newspaper=The Sentinel |first=Pete |last=Smith |date=12 July 2015 |access-date=12 July 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713072227/http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Stoke-City-Tour-help-Jack-Butland-rival-says-Shay/story-26886228-detail/story.html|archive-date=13 July 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/news/news/2015-16/jul/120715-shay-given-marco-van-ginkel-on-signing-for-stoke.html? |title=Rejoining Hughes persuaded me to join Stoke |publisher=Premier League |date=12 July 2015 |access-date=12 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150716035103/http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/news/news/2015-16/jul/120715-shay-given-marco-van-ginkel-on-signing-for-stoke.html |archive-date=16 July 2015}} He made his debut on 25 August 2015 in a 1–1 draw with Luton Town in the League Cup, Stoke winning on penalties.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/33969963 |title=Luton 1–1 Stoke |publisher=BBC Sport |first=Phil |last=Shepka |date=25 August 2015 |access-date=29 August 2015}} He missed most of Stoke's 2015–16 campaign after needing to undergo knee surgery in October 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Newcastle-v-Stoke-City-Shay-Given-needs-knee/story-28090161-detail/story.html |title=Shay Given needs knee surgery |newspaper=The Sentinel |publisher=Reach plc |location=Stoke |first=Martin |last=Spinks |date=31 October 2015 |access-date=24 May 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151108053232/http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Newcastle-v-Stoke-City-Shay-Given-needs-knee/story-28090161-detail/story.html |archive-date=8 November 2015}} Given returned towards the end of the campaign and due to injury to Butland, he shared goalkeeping duties with Jakob Haugaard.{{cite news|url=http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Stoke-City-Shay-Given-ready-Premier-League-debut/story-29090365-detail/story.html |title=Shay Given ready for Premier League debut against Tottenham |newspaper=The Sentinel |publisher=Reach plc |location=Stoke |first=Martin |last=Spinks |date=12 April 2016 |access-date=24 May 2016}}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

Given began the 2016–17 season as first-choice due to an injury to Butland. On 27 August 2016, he conceded an own goal in a 1–0 away defeat to Everton. Given had palmed a Leighton Baines penalty onto the post but the ball rebounded against his head and went over the line.{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/everton-vs-stoke-match-report-a7213301.html |title=Everton vs Stoke match report: Shay Given's own goal off Leighton Baines' penalty gives Toffees narrow win |newspaper=The Independent |first=Simon |last=Hart |date=27 August 2016 |access-date=29 August 2016}} After conceding four goals against Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace in September, Given lost his place in the side to Lee Grant.{{cite news|url=http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/stoke-city-veteran-shay-given-hurt-by-demotion-but-standing-firm/story-29815921-detail/story.html?|title=Stoke City veteran Shay Given hurt by demotion but standing firm |newspaper=The Sentinel |publisher=Reach plc |location=Stoke |first=Martin |last=Spinks |date=17 October 2016 |access-date=17 October 2016}}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} He was released by Stoke at the end of the 2016–17 season.{{Cite news |title=Potters Submit Retained List |url=http://www.stokecityfc.com/news/article/2016-17/potters-submit-retained-list-3725425.aspx |publisher=Stoke City F.C. |date=26 May 2017 |access-date=26 May 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526182549/http://www.stokecityfc.com/news/article/2016-17/potters-submit-retained-list-3725425.aspx |archive-date=26 May 2017}}

On 21 April 2018, the day after his 42nd birthday, Given announced his retirement from professional football whilst receiving an award for Donegal Person of the Year in Dublin.{{cite web|url=http://www.highlandradio.com/2018/04/22/shay-given-confirms-retirement-from-professional-football/ |title=Shay Given confirms retirement from professional football |website=Highland Radio |date=22 April 2018 |access-date=29 August 2018}}

Given represented the Republic of Ireland at youth level before earning five caps for the Republic of Ireland national under-21 team. Although he did not become a regular first team player for Blackburn, Given's performances while on loan at Swindon and Sunderland led to him being called up to the Republic of Ireland squad in 1996. He made his debut for the national team on 27 March 1996, in a game against Russia.{{cite web|url=http://www.fai.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=56 |title=Republic of Ireland: Squad Profile |publisher=Football Association of Ireland |access-date=24 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071119025526/http://www.fai.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=56 |archive-date=19 November 2007 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/republic_of_ireland/2238874.stm |title=Russia v Republic of Ireland stats |publisher=BBC Sport |date=6 September 2002 |access-date=10 May 2009}}{{cite news|title=Croft makes £1m move to Rovers|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6208832.croft-makes-1m-move-rovers/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=28 March 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}} Due to his lack of playing time at Blackburn Rovers in the 1996–97 season, manager Mick McCarthy dropped him from the squad.{{cite news|title=ROVERS: Reid not Given up the chase|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6195033.rovers-reid-not-given-chase/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=21 October 1996|access-date=1 April 2024}}
{{cite news|title=ROVERS; A Marek made in heaven!|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6187909.rovers-marek-made-heaven/|website=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=4 February 1997|access-date=1 April 2024}}

Although Ireland failed to qualify for the 1998 FIFA World Cup or UEFA Euro 2000, Given established himself as first-choice goalkeeper. He played in all of his nation's games at the 2002 FIFA World Cup. With draws against Cameroon and Germany and a 3–0 win against Saudi Arabia,{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition=4395/results/matches/match=43950002/report.html |title=Ireland Republic – Cameroon |publisher=FIFA |access-date=24 December 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090131092242/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition%3D4395/results/matches/match%3D43950002/report.html |archive-date=31 January 2009 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition=4395/results/matches/match=43950017/report.html |title=Germany – Ireland Republic |publisher=FIFA|access-date=24 December 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090129113102/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition%3D4395/results/matches/match%3D43950017/report.html|archive-date=29 January 2009}}{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition=4395/results/matches/match=43950036/report.html |title=Saudi Arabia – Ireland Republic |publisher=FIFA |access-date=24 December 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081018034131/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition%3D4395/results/matches/match%3D43950036/report.html |archive-date=18 October 2008 }} the team reached the second round of the competition.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport3/worldcup2002/low/matches_wallchart/saudi_arabia_v_rep_of_ireland/newsid_1927000/1927047.stm |title=Ireland stroll into last 16 |date=11 June 2002 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=26 December 2008}} Meeting Spain in the knockout round, Ireland forced penalties with the score at 1–1 at the end of extra time. Three missed penalties for Ireland ended their participation in the tournament, and Spain progressed to the next round.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition=4395/results/matches/match=43950052/report.html|title=Spain – Ireland Republic|publisher=FIFA|access-date=24 December 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081028134638/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/edition%3D4395/results/matches/match%3D43950052/report.html|archive-date=28 October 2008}}

Given was part of the team for most of the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign; however a draw with Switzerland meant Ireland failed to qualify for the finals of the competition in Germany. He equalled Packie Bonner's record of 80 caps against Slovakia on 28 March 2007. Given obtained his 100th cap against Montenegro at Croke Park, Dublin on 14 October 2009 in a 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying game. Ireland reached a qualifying play-off against France, but were controversially eliminated by a goal scored after Thierry Henry handled the ball.

Given was part of the team that secured qualification for UEFA Euro 2012 with a play-off victory against Estonia.{{cite web|url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2011/1115/ireland_quotes_players.html |title=Duff – Euro qualification an 'amazing feeling' |website=RTÉ Sport |date=15 November 2011 |access-date=15 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111116162307/http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2011/1115/ireland_quotes_players.html |archive-date=16 November 2011}} Given played in the Euro 2012 championship as Ireland were eliminated in the group stage.

File:Shay Given,Gibralter V Ireland, 4 September 2015.JPG

On 13 August 2012, Given announced on Twitter his decision to retire from international football, describing it as an "unforgettable experience" to play for his country. Given retired holding the record for the most capped Irishman, though Robbie Keane was closing in on the record.{{cite web|url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2012/0813/333484-given-hangs-up-international-gloves/ |title=Shay Given retires from international action |website=RTÉ Sport |date=13 August 2012 |access-date=13 August 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/story/1133489/aston-villas-shay-given-retires-from-ireland |title=Given quits international football |website=ESPN FC |date=13 August 2012 |access-date=13 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161115135904/http://www.espnfc.com/story/1133489/aston-villas-shay-given-retires-from-ireland |archive-date=15 November 2016}}

Due to Given's lack of playing time with his club Aston Villa, there was speculation that he would make himself available for selection as part of Ireland's 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign. On 14 January 2013, it was announced that Given was once again available for international selection.{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/story/1301039/shay-given-has-put-himself-back-up-for-ireland-selection |title=Given to make Ireland comeback |website=ESPN FC |first=Ian |last=Edwards |date=16 January 2013 |access-date=20 January 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904183626/http://www.espnfc.com/story/1301039/shay-given-has-put-himself-back-up-for-ireland-selection |archive-date=4 September 2014}}

On 30 August 2014, still not having played a league game with Aston Villa, three games into the 2014–15 Premier League season, he was selected by Martin O'Neill in his 27-man squad for a friendly against Oman and Ireland's first Euro 2016 qualifier in Georgia. It came after a two-year international absence, after retiring following the disappointing Euro 2012, where Ireland failed to progress from the group stages. He was one of four goalkeepers in the squad.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/28998572|title=Shay Given back in Republic squad for Oman & Georgia games|date=30 August 2014 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=30 March 2015}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/international/shay-given-returns-to-republic-of-ireland-squad-1.1913212|title=Shay Given returns to Republic of Ireland squad |newspaper=The Irish Times|date=30 August 2014|access-date=30 March 2015}} On 2 September 2014, Given made his first start for Ireland since the Euros in a 2–0 win against Oman.{{cite web|url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2014/0903/641286-ireland-v-oman-report/ |title=Ireland cruise to win over Oman |website=RTÉ Sport |date=2 September 2014 |access-date=30 March 2015}} However, he did not start against Georgia in O'Neill's first competitive game with David Forde getting the nod. Ireland won 2–1 in Tbilisi thanks to an Aiden McGeady brace.{{cite web|url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2014/0907/642037-georgia-v-republic-of-ireland/ |title=Aiden McGeady hands Ireland opening win with brilliant double |website=RTÉ Sport |date=7 September 2014 |access-date=30 March 2015}} On 18 November 2014, Given started the 4–1 win against the United States in Dublin.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/30006678 |title=Republic of Ireland 4–1 USA |publisher=BBC Sport |date=18 November 2014 |access-date=18 November 2014}}

On 29 March 2015, Given regained his place in the starting line-up for the crucial Euro 2016 qualifier against Poland. The game finished 1–1 with Shane Long scoring a last minute equaliser.{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/european-championships/republic-of-ireland-player-ratings-wes-hoolahan-a-deserved-man-of-the-match-31103689.html |title=Republic of Ireland player ratings: Wes Hoolahan a deserved man of the match |newspaper=Irish Independent |publisher=Independent News & Media |location=Dublin |first=Cormac |last=Byrne |date=29 March 2015}} On 8 October 2015, Given suffered a knee injury and had to be stretchered off after 44 minutes against the 2014 FIFA World Cup winners Germany in what turned out to be a memorable night for Ireland as they prevailed with a 1–0 win.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/international/shay-given-ruled-out-of-poland-decider-with-knee-injury-1.2385923|title=Shay Given ruled out of Poland decider with knee injury|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=9 October 2015|access-date=23 June 2016}}

On 31 May 2016, Given became Ireland's longest-serving player after appearing in the 2–1 home defeat to Belarus. He eclipsed Johnny Giles' record of 19 years and 202 days and became the first Irishman to play for his country for 20 years or more.{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/republics-euro-preparations-hit-by-defeat-to-belarus-34762873.html |title=Republic's Euro preparations hit by defeat to Belarus |newspaper=Irish Independent |publisher=Independent News & Media |location=Dublin |date=31 May 2016 |access-date=29 June 2016}} He was selected in the 23-man Ireland squad for Euro 2016 but did not feature in any match at the tournament.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36919967 |title=Goalkeeper Shay Given retires from Republic duty |publisher=BBC Sport |date=28 July 2016 |access-date=28 July 2016}}

On 28 July 2016, Given announced his retirement from international football for the second and final time. He gave all his international playing fees to charity.{{cite news|url=http://www.donegaldaily.com/2011/11/18/shay-gives-all-his-playing-fees-for-ireland-to-charity-reveals-dad/ |title=Shay gives all his playing fees for Ireland to charity reveals dad |date=18 November 2011 |access-date=18 November 2011 |website=Donegal Daily}}

Regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League in his prime and one of the best goalkeepers in Irish footballing history, Given was considered to be an agile, athletic, resolute and courageous goalkeeper, with excellent reflexes, anticipation, shot stopping abilities, and a good command of his area, in spite of not being particularly tall, although at times he had been accused in the media of not being particularly effective at dealing with crosses.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/everton/3015681/Newcastle-grateful-for-Given-agility.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/everton/3015681/Newcastle-grateful-for-Given-agility.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Newcastle grateful for Given agility |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Peter |last=Gardner |date=28 October 2001 |access-date=16 January 2018}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/924895.stm|title=Given ends rumours and signs deal|publisher=BBC Sport |date=14 September 2000 |access-date=16 January 2018}}{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2009/m=11/news=given-have-believe-1131072.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910130656/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2009/m=11/news=given-have-believe-1131072.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 September 2015|title=Given: We have to believe |publisher=FIFA |date=10 November 2009 |access-date=16 January 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/given-s-error-allows-dublin-to-capitalise-1.124954 |title=Given's error allows Dublin to capitalise |newspaper=The Irish Times |first=Steve |last=Bierley |date=10 November 1997 |access-date=16 January 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/jul/19/the-fiver-shay-given-villa |title=Shay Given from the County Donegal |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Barry |last=Glendenning |authorlink=Barry Glendenning|date=19 July 2011 |access-date=16 January 2018}}{{cite web |date=1 September 2014 |title=Who is Ireland's best goalkeeper of the past 40 years? |url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/international-soccer/who-is-irelands-best-goalkeeper-of-the-past-40-years/30550047.html |access-date=23 November 2023 |website=Irish Independent}}{{cite web |last=Fennessy |first=Paul |date=29 July 2016 |title=Shay Given's consummate professionalism turned him into Ireland's greatest ever goalkeeper |url=https://www.the42.ie/shay-given-irelands-greatest-ever-goalkeeper-2902070-Jul2016/ |access-date=23 November 2023 |website=The 42}}

File:Shay Given 2021.png

In June 2018, Given was appointed goalkeeping coach at Derby County under new manager Frank Lampard.{{cite web|url=https://www.dcfc.co.uk/news/2018/06/trio-join-lampards-backroom-staff|title=Trio Join Lampard's Backroom Staff|publisher=Derby County F.C.|date=29 June 2018|access-date=29 June 2018}} He retained his position when Phillip Cocu was appointed manager in July 2019.{{cite web|url=https://www.dcfc.co.uk/news/2019/07/phillip-cocu-named-as-derby-countys-new-manager|title=Phillip Cocu named as Derby County's new manager|publisher=Derby County F.C.|date=5 July 2019|access-date=14 November 2019}} In November 2020, Given was part of an interim coaching quartet alongside Wayne Rooney, Liam Rosenior and Justin Walker after Cocu was sacked earlier that month. After two matches as an interim quartet, Rooney would go on to take sole charge.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/wayne-rooney-derby-county-2-5280733-Nov2020/ |title=Rooney to take sole charge of Derby County from this weekend |website=The42 |publisher=TheJournal.ie |agency=Press Association |date=27 November 2020 |access-date=3 January 2021}} On 15 January 2021, Rooney was appointed as the club's permanent manager and Given moved to the position of first-team coach.{{cite news|url=https://www.donegaldaily.com/2021/01/15/shay-given-becomes-first-team-coach-at-derby-county/ |title=Shay Given becomes first team coach at Derby County |website=Donegal Daily |first=Chris |last=McNulty |date=15 January 2021 |access-date=18 January 2021}} Given left his role at Derby at the end of the season because the club's financial problems meant they could not afford to renew it.{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/shay-given-leaves-role-at-crisis-club-derby-county-40694843.html |title=Shay Given leaves role at crisis club Derby County |newspaper=Independent.ie |first=Daniel |last=McDonnell |access-date=17 July 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/shay-given-derby-county-rooney-6322508 |title=Shay Given breaks silence on Derby County departure and reveals reason for exit |newspaper=Derbyshire Live |first=Matt |last=Abbott |access-date=8 December 2021}}

Given has been in a relationship with Rebecca Gibson since 2013, and the couple have two daughters.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishmirror.ie/showbiz/irish-showbiz/becky-gibson-given-heart-shay-2017163|title=Becky Gibson has Given her heart to Shay – Footballer's new woman says she's 'head over heels'|newspaper=Irish Mirror|date=2 July 2013|access-date=29 August 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.ie/style/celebrity/celebrity-news/shay-given-feeling-blessed-after-welcoming-second-child-with-fiance-becky-35749759.html |title=Shay Given 'feeling blessed' after welcoming second child with fiancée Becky |newspaper=Irish Independent |publisher=Independent News & Media |location=Dublin |first=Melanie |last=Finn |date=24 May 2017 |access-date=29 August 2018}} In 2006, Given was awarded the Freedom of County Donegal in a ceremony in his home town, Lifford.

Given has helped to organise several fundraising events in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.{{cite web|url=http://www.nufc.co.uk/articles/20041122/fashion-kicks_2240137_592510|title=Fashion Kicks|publisher=Newcastle United F.C.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100304131648/http://www.nufc.co.uk/articles/20041122/fashion-kicks_2240137_592510|archive-date=4 March 2010}} His mother died of cancer when he was four, so he has continually tried to raise money as it is an issue close to him.{{cite web|url=http://nycfc.live.mancity.aquepreview.com/Home/CityTV/Features/2010/February/Shay-launches-charity-event|title=Shay launches charity event|date=15 February 2010|publisher=Manchester City F.C.|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170303045744/http://nycfc.live.mancity.aquepreview.com/Home/CityTV/Features/2010/February/Shay-launches-charity-event|archive-date=3 March 2017}} On 27 November 2011, Given was brought to tears during a minute's applause for former teammate and personal friend Gary Speed, following Speed's death earlier that day, before Aston Villa met Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium.{{cite news|url=http://metro.co.uk/2011/11/27/gary-speed-dead-at-42-shay-given-in-tears-as-liberty-stadium-pays-tribute-234694/|title=Gary Speed dead at 42: Shay Given in tears as Liberty Stadium pays tribute|newspaper=Metro|first=Emily|last=Hewett|date=27 November 2011|access-date=2 March 2017}}

{{notelist}}

Honours

Sunderland

• Football League First Division: 1995–96

Swindon Town

• Football League Second Division: 1995–96

Newcastle United

• FA Cup: 1997–98; runner-up{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/18/shay-given-dropped-fa-cup-final-aston-villa-liverpool |title=Shay Given: 'Do you ever get over being dropped for an FA Cup final?' |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=18 April 2015 |access-date=21 May 2019}}
• UEFA Intertoto Cup: 2006

Manchester City

• FA Cup: 2010–11

Aston Villa

• FA Cup: 2014–15; runner-up

Republic of Ireland

• Nations Cup: 2011{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/may/29/republic-ireland-scotland-nations-cup |title=Robbie Keane earns Ireland deciding win over Scotland in Nations Cup |date=29 May 2011 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |access-date=14 May 2020}}

Individual

• PFA Team of the Year: 2001–02 Premier League, 2005–06 Premier League
• North-East FWA Player of the Year: 2002, 2006{{cite web|url=https://footballwriters.co.uk/editorial/saint-maximin-voted-north-east-fwa-player-of-the-year/|title=Saint-Maximin voted North-East FWA Player of the Year|website=footballwriters.co.uk|date=13 January 2022|accessdate=30 August 2022}}
• Newcastle United Player of the Year: 2004–05, 2005–06{{cite web|url=https://www.nufc.co.uk/news/latest-news/joelinton-scoops-newcastle-united-player-of-the-year-award/ |title=Joelinton scoops Newcastle United Player of the Year award |first=Rory |last=Mitchinson |publisher=Newcastle United F.C. |date=16 May 2022 |access-date=19 October 2023}}
• FAI Senior International Player of the Year: 2005, 2006

• List of men's footballers with 100 or more international caps

{{reflist}}

{{Commons category}}

• {{Soccerbase}}
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