Ireland goalkeeper Given admits speeding charge

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has admitted speeding after he was caught driving his luxury Bentley at 75mph in a 50mph zone, a court heard today.

The out-of-favour Manchester City star, who was recently replaced in goal by Joe Hart, was clocked by police officers earlier this year.

Given, 34, did not attend court for his hearing, pleading guilty to the charge by letter instead.

He did not indicate a plea to the charge of failing to produce a licence, Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard.

The case was adjourned for three weeks for him to appear in person to enter his plea.

The Lifford native was seen driving down the Princess Parkway dual carriageway in Manchester on February 16 at around 11.50pm.

Given was clocked doing an average speed of 75mph in the 50mph zone and was issued with a fixed penalty notice.

He told officers he would take his licence to Wilmslow police station in Cheshire but has since been charged with failing to produce it.

Given already has three points on his licence for speeding after an offence in April 2008.