Stoke City have today confirmed the signing of Aston Villa goalkeeper, Shay Given on a free transfer.
Given has signed a 2-year deal at the Britannia Stadium. The 39-year-old still had a year left on his contract at Villa, but has chosen to pursue first-team football elsewhere with Tim Sherwood keen to bring in a new goalkeeper.
Given was originally expected to rejoin Middlesbrough where he spent 2014 on loan, but the Potters came in late to snatch the signature of the Irish international.
The 39-year old originally signed for Villa in 2012. And was one of the few highlights in Alex McLeish’s controversial tenure at the club, however he quickly found himself out of favour when Paul Lambert arrived in 2013.
His last few appearances at Villa will be remembered fondly under the management of Tim Sherwood who chose the veteran over Guzan towards the back end of last season helping Villa to their first FA Cup final in 15 years.
A model professional and level headed man throughout his career, Given will be remembered for his loyal service to Villa despite frustration for large parts of his career at Villa Park.
