Given set for United clash

Injury to Toon shot-stopper not as bad as first feared

By Joe Drabble   Last updated: 14th February 2008

given shay

Given: May return for United clash

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Shay Given could be back in time for Newcastle's Premier League clash with Manchester United next weekend.

The Republic of Ireland goalkeeper picked up a reoccurrence of a groin injury during his side's 4-1 defeat at Villa Park last weekend, but the 31-year-old is confident he will be back in time to face the defending champions.

"The groin's not too bad and hopefully I'll be okay for Man Utd," Given told the club's official website.

Toon boss Kevin Keegan is still looking for his first win back at the helm and he too is hoping his No.1 will be fit in time.

"We will have to assess the situation again next week but Shay's injury does not look as though it is a bad one," said Keegan.

"We are hopeful he will be fit again by the time we play Manchester United next week."

Determined

Meanwhile, Newcastle full-back Habib Beye has expressed his determination to secure a regular first-team spot in the North East, after recently returning from Africa Nations Cup duty with Senegal.

"The manager has choices here. All we can do is stay fit and work hard," said Beye.

"At the moment we are going through a lot of difficulties, and we need to have everybody.

"I have been playing in Ghana for my country, now I want to play here and do a job for the team and manager.

"Nobody can take their place in the team for granted."