Lambert’s faith in Guzan justified after Given axing

Newcastle Utd 1 Aston Villa 1

Of all the places to suffer the ignominy of being dropped, St James’ Park is the last place the 36-year-old, who paid the price for his unconvincing display against Everton in the previous league game, would have wanted to be warming the bench, in front of the Geordie masses who he served with such distinction for a dozen seasons.

Criticised for his performances in the European Championship finals, Given at least retained his place long enough to retire from international football before he was pushed. Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert afforded him no such luxury.