Shay Given frustrated by Aston Villa axe

Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given has revealed his growing frustrations at a lack of game time for his club.

The Republic of Ireland stopper, who was linked with a late move to Liverpool in the summer, has been forced to operate as understudy to current Villa number one Brad Guzan.

It is thought that a move to the Reds broke down over a wages dispute, which has left Given admitting that he will have to fight for his place at Villa Park.

"Of course it's frustrating not playing, it's hard to keep training and know there's no game at the end of the week," Given told The Telegraph.

"Things can change quickly in football with injuries and suspensions and if I get an opportunity I've got to be ready to take it if that hopefully comes along. I'm fit as a fiddle and feel really sharp, I'm just raring to get that chance.

"I played in Stiliyan Petrov's testimonial in front of 60,000 fans at the weekend and as a player that's all you want to do, to show people you've still got the ability to play in the Premier League."

The 37-year-old last played for Villa in their FA Cup defeat to Millwall in January.