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Given prepared for Stoke battle after making switch from Aston Villa

Shay Given insists he is ready to compete for the number one spot at Stoke City.

The 39-year-old Irish goalkeeper left Aston Villa to join the Potters following the sale of Asmir Begovic to Chelsea and is now looking to challenge young gun Jack Butland to the starting position at the Britannia Stadium.

However, former Newcastle United and Manchester City gloveman Given says he will also do what it takes to assist Butland in his development as long as it is for the good of the club.

He told Sky Sports News HQ: "Obviously Jack has finished the season in great form and obviously it is the manager's decision. Of course I would love to play but if not then I will be there to support Jack

"He's a fantastic young 'keeper, the U21 goalkeeper and captain and he has a huge future ahead of him. Whoever plays the most important thing is that we get the result for Stoke."

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Andrew Slevison
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Andrew Slevison

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