Manchester City's rookie defender Dedryck Boyata says Shay Given has helped his transition to first team football.

The 19-year-old Belgian defender has featured in all four of Roberto Mancini's squads so far.

"Shay's always helping me," Boyata told City's website. "It's funny because I've watched him on TV over the years and more recently during World Cup qualification play-off between Ireland and France.

"All I can do is work hard and do my best each time I play. The great thing for me is that Shay is one of the best in the world and with his experience and knowledge of the game it can only help me improve as a player.

"He's always shouting, encouraging and organising - and when he says something, I listen! As a defender, it gives you great confidence to relax and play your normal game."