Hart-felt praise for Given

JOE HART has paid tribute to his rival at Manchester City, Shay Given, as he prepares to make his competitive debut for England, claiming he is happy the Ireland No 1 has decided to stay and fight for his place at Eastlands.

Hart, 23, and Given, 34, are going head-to-head for the goalkeeper’s jersey at City after Given opted not to leave the club on loan at the end of the transfer window.

It was a big decision for the Donegal man who has 104 caps for his country but who faces spending a season on the bench for his club if he cannot persuade City manager Roberto Mancini to make him first choice.