Time to map out a plan for Villa's future
- Says blogger Matthew Turvey
Aston Villa’s Shay Given to go on and on for the Republic of Ireland
Friday 11th November 2011, 4:00PM GMT.
Shay Given goes hunting a summer at the 2012 European Championships – but it’s far from a last chance for the Aston Villa goalkeeper.
Given will be aiming to keep up his impressive form in his first season at Villa Park when the Republic of Ireland tackle Estonia in the away leg of their play-off clash.
The 35-year-old is already a veteran of three similar play-offs with his nation, which twice ended in the heartbreak of missing out at the 1998 and 2010 World Cups.
But the veteran has not had to look far for his inspiration to continue playing past 40, citing predecessor Brad Friedel as a prime source of encouragement.
Given said: “I would love to play past 40. You look at people like Brad and it gives you inspiration. Edwin van der Sar was 40 when he was playing for Manchester United last season and he had one of his best seasons.
“Hopefully I can stay injury-free and on top of my game. I’d like to play as long as I can. I like to think I have plenty of years left. I’m trying to do my best for Villa.”
Read the full story in today’s Express & Star
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