Toon Goalkeeper Quick To Forget The Past
By Nu Mad
Updated Friday, 6th July 2007
Shay Given says he hates looking back, but claims last season was certainly one he wants to forget in a hurry.
He went years without injury but was badly hurt in a horrific collision with West Ham's Marlon Harewood last September at Upton Park. It cut short his season by several months, and it was quickly followed by two groin injuries later in the campaign.
Given has just about been first choice for ten years since arriving from Blackburn in 1997, although Shaka Hislop regained his position midway through the Irishman's first season for a while, and Steve Harper pipped him for the shirt in the 1999 FA Cup final.
He celebrates 10 years at the club this coming season, and he is likely to be granted a testimonial by the United board at the end of the season.
Shay Given: "It was a frustrating season for me.
"I've had three big injuries, and they say things come in threes, so I just hope that's the injuries out of the way for another six years, touch wood.
"I don't like looking back over the years too much.
"But looking at last season, it was frustrating from a personal point of view, both in terms of injuries and the fact that was haven't got back into Europe through our league position.
"Hopefully, we can put things right this term and get this club back where it belongs."
