Given Aiming For Europe

The Magpies suffered a disjointed season last year with new manager Sam Allardyce lasting just over six months in the job before being replaced with Kevin Keegan.

Yet Keegan’s side have enjoyed a bright start to this season, drawing with Manchester United at Old Trafford on the opening day and seeing off Bolton 1-0 last weekend.

Speaking to Setanta Sports News, Given admitted he was pleased with his side’s start. He said: “We have had a good start and had a good win in the cup, so it is good.”

Newcastle progressed in the Carling Cup in midweek, beating Coventry City 3-2, and overcoming a potentially tricky tie. The win added to the renewed sense of optimism now surrounding St James’ Park and Given admitted Europe was the main aim this season.

“I always find it difficult when people ask me where I think we will finish. It is always a difficult question,” admitted the goalkeeper before adding, “We would like to improve on last season and see where that takes us. Ideally we want to get back into Europe and we will try and do that and push hard.”

Manager Keegan has attempted to bolster his squad this summer and has brought in several new signings who have already slotted in well. Danny Guthrie, Fabricio Coloccini, Sebastien Bassong and Jonas Guttierez have all made their Newcastle bows and impressed the fans.

Yet Given hinted that the spending might not yet be over and that the Toon Army will need even more recruits if they are to finish the season towards the top of the Premier League or with a trophy to their name. He concluded: “A lot will depend if we can get a couple more players in before the window closes on Monday night.”