Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert: Shay Given is still world class
Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert insists Shay Given is still world class after an impressive display in a win against Ipswich Town
Paul Lambert believes Aston Villa’s second-choice goalkeeper Shay Given is still “world class” after the Irishman’s impressive display in a 2-1 victory over Ipswich Town in the FA Cup third round.
The former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper has been out-of-favour at the Birmingham outfit this season, with the club’s new manager Lambert preferring American Brad Guzan.
However, Given made a string of top saves to ensure Villa remained in the FA Cup, and Lambert hailed the former Newcastle United shot stopper’s performance.
“I think Shay has been unfortunate because of the way Brad has been playing as well,” said Lambert.
“Shay Given is a world-class goalkeeper but Brad Guzan has been playing fantastic for us as well.
“Shay makes saves that I think are impossible to make. He is very good.
“If you ask the young players in front of him, they will tell you what they think of him as well.
“I can’t speak highly enough of the way Shay plays. I thought the save he made in the second half was world class.”
Lambert’s men face League Two’s Bradford City in the first leg of their Capital One Cup semi-final, and the Villa manager admitted it will be a “massive” occasion for his side.
“It is massive for the football club, it is massive for us as a team and it will be massive for individuals to get through,” Lambert added.
“It is going to be a tough game. It is a two-legged affair and we are certainly playing well enough.”
