Birmingham, Jul 19: Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given joined Aston Villa from Manchester City on Monday in a bid to resurrect his career.
The 35-year-old Given, who has signed a five-year deal with Villa, lost his place in the City team last season to Joe Hart.
“Everyone knows that I didn't play enough football last season, so I'm really pleased that I'll be able to put that right here,” Given said on the Villa website. “Hopefully, this move will get me back to where I was before in the Premier League, which is where every player wants to be playing.
“Obviously, I'm also excited to be working with (manager) Alex McLeish and it's going to be a fresh start for everybody at the club this season.”
Given is replacing Brad Friedel at Villa after the 40-year-old American joined Tottenham last month.
“Shay has come here probably with something of a point to prove and that won't do any harm at all,” McLeish said. “Everybody who has watched him perform over many years in the Premier League will know his pedigree, so we believe we have secured the services of one of the best goalkeepers in the business.
“He's a real competitor and a world-class keeper and I'm delighted he's the first signing I've made at Villa.” AP
