Shay Given wants to push Jack Butland out of the first team

The 40 year old Irish goal-keeper Shay Given is eager and determined to become the main shot-stopper of Stoke City as he is currently being overshadowed by Jack Butland.

Shay Given was originally signed by Stoke City on July of 2015 and his initial purpose was to serve as a back-up option of Jack Butland but the veteran player wants to go beyond that and become a much more important figure in the Premier League club.

The pre-season is almost over and Shay Given has recently stated that he is feeling good and wants to continue being fit for as long as possible as the Irish player not only wants to be ready in case that he gets called up in any chance but also for him to be able to showcase his skills in any opportunity that is given to him.

‘’Pre-season is going very well over here in Orlando. I feel sharp and my body feels good so I’m trying to push Jack as hard as I can to get a position in the team.I need to stay professional and work hard every day on the training ground and, with the manager and coaching staff watching, you have to try and impress and show that I still have a lot to offer. If Jack does slip up or get injured then, you want to be there and take that position and given the opportunity I still think I can play in the Premier League.” Stoke City’s Shay Given said.

At the age of 40, it’s likely that these are the last few years of Shay Given performing at a high level and he wants to focus on the Premier League which is why the Irish player decided to finish his international career and just concentrate his remaining playing career time that he has with Stoke City.