Roeder: ‘Lazarus’ Given could play until he’s 40

SHAY GIVEN is very much alive and kicking — and Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder predicts the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper can play until he is 40.

Roeder revealed after the Magpies’ enthralling 2-2 New Year’s Day home draw with Manchester United that Given — nicknamed Lazarus due to his powers of recovery — is almost fully fit after a groin problem.

Given amazed medical staff at Newcastle this season with his quick-fire comeback from emergency surgery for the perforated bowel he suffered in a collision with West Ham striker Marlon Harewood in September.