Given buzzing after debut clean sheet

Former Republic of Ireland number one Shay Given was pleased to get the “buzz” back after ending 10 months on the sidelines with a clean sheet on his Middlesbrough debut against Bolton.

Given joined Middlesbrough on-loan from Aston Villa on Thursday having not played a competitive match since January.

“For me the most important thing was to get off to a good start, keep a clean sheet and get three points. I can’t really ask any more than that,” he said after the 1-0 win.

“It was probably the perfect way to start for me, getting the buzz before the game and the excitement and playing in front of a crowd again which was fantastic.

“You miss that. You miss that excitement of playing football every weekend and I was delighted to be back out there and to get the victory was the icing on the cake and it is a great feeling.”

Given admitted he jumped at the chance to make the loan switch.

“To be to fair to Steve Gibson [the Middlesbrough’s owner] he got us here and to be fair to Villa they played their part and I think all parties felt I needed to be playing football again.

“I thank both sides of the fence for getting me here and I was delighted to come here. As soon as I got the call I was straight up the A1. I am delighted to be back playing again which is the most important thing.”