Given ready to leave Newcastle

The Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given is ready to quit the struggling Premier League club, according to his lawyer. Given, 32, has grown increasingly unhappy with Newcastle's on and off-field problems and last weekend's 5-1 defeat at home to Liverpool was the final straw. Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear this week insisted Republic of Ireland star Given would not be allowed to leave in the transfer window.

But Given's lawyer Michael Kennedy admitted the goalkeeper was considering his future at St James' Park, with Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City all potential suitors for his signature. "Shay is very despondent following the very poor performance of the team against Liverpool last weekend," Mr Kennedy's statement said. "It was the lowest point of his football career and a performance that he would not wish to be repeated.

"When he signed a new five-year contract in 2006 it was on the basis that the club would challenge for major honours, but on the present evidence all that he can see ahead with the turmoil on and off the pitch is a battle for survival. "Having served the club loyally for over 11 years, Shay feels compelled to consider his position in the light of the interest being expressed in him by Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham."

*AFP