 Republic of Ireland international Shay Given appears to have lost his first team place at Manchester City and may return north to the club he left as a youngster. Neil Lennon has been on the hunt for a new goalkeeper since Artur Boruc left Parkhead for Fiorentina and, though Lukasz Zaluska has been given the nod for the European matches and the opening league game against Inverness, an experienced number one is a priority. The move to sign David James fell through and Celtic are now turning their attention to Given. The 34-year old made his name at Newcastle before moving to Manchester City 18 months ago. However, Roberto Mancini left Given on the bench and gave Joe Hart the gloves for for Saturday's Premier League opener.That decision has apparently given Celtic hope that they can persuade City to agree a loan deal to bring Given to Scotland. The keeper had stated last week that if he was not first choice at City then he would be looking to move in order to play regular football. Discussing his rivalry with Hart for the starting spot at Manchester City, Given said he understood Mancini had a tough decision to make but made it clear he was not keen on spending a season on the bench. He said: “We're both at a stage where we want to play football and if I don't start I'll sit down with the club next week and see where my future is. Maybe vice-versa with Joe as we both feel we should be playing. I'm at a stage where I need to be playing. I'm 34 and don't have millions of years left.” |