Newcastle Boss Insists Given Is Not For Sale

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Newcastle United manager Joe Kinnear has once again declared that Republic of Ireland International goalkeeper Shay Given is not for sale, with Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Manchester City all reportedly interested in securing the services of the shot-stopper this month.

Despite reports earlier on Friday that 32-year-old has become disillusioned with life at the Magpies after 11-years at St James’ Park, with Given’s lawyer hinting that the keeper was ready to quit the Toon. Kinnear has insisted that Given, who is under contract at the Premiership club until 2011, will not be leaving Newcastle.

Kinnear said: “I'm not sure of the facts that he (Kennedy) has said or how it's been interpreted, but what I will say is Shay is contracted until 2011.

“He is our player and he is going to stay our player, it's as simple as that.

“We are not interested at all (in selling him). I want to clear that - that is probably the last time I will be talking about it.

“He is here, he is our player and he is going to stay our player.

“He is an integral part of the team, he is the best goalkeeper by miles in the league, so why should we jeopardise our chances in the position we are in?

"It wouldn't make sense, so as far as I am concerned, he is going to stay our player.”