The Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper moved to
the Britannia Stadium last week and will provide competition to
Butland following the confirmation of Asmir Begovic’s transfer to
Chelsea.
And Given, now 39, insists he’s up for the contest for the
starting berth.
“Obviously Jack [Butland] is an excellent goalkeeper. He’s
an Under-21 international for England so he’s got a big future,” he told the Alan Brazil
Sports Breakfast.
“So yeah, there is competition for places but it’s the same
in every club and you need that competition. I’m delighted to be here.”
Given’s switch to Stoke will see him link up again with his
former manager at Manchester City, Mark Hughes. And, not surprisingly, that was a
key factor in his decision.
He added: “I’m staying in the Premier League and,
having worked with Mark Hughes and his staff at Manchester City, it’s a great
move for me personally and I’m looking forward to the new season.
“Stoke in the last couple of seasons have been fantastic.
They’ve had a great couple of years and signing players like Glen Johnson can only strengthen and improve the
squad even more, so these are exciting times to be at Stoke.”
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