Shay Given
Given hasn't played for Villa since January.

Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given has bemoaned his plight at Villa Park after a deadline day move to Liverpool fell through.

The former Republic of Ireland international hasn't played for Villa since January's FA Cup defeat to Millwall after being demoted to third choice behind Brad Guzan and youth goalkeeper Jed Steer.

Given was on the verge of completing a loan move to Liverpool on the final day of the transfer window but the move fell through reportedly due to concerns the Reds had over paying a significant portion of the 37 year old's £50,000-a-week salary.

And the former Newcastle United stopper, who featured in Stiliyan Petrov's charity match at Celtic Park on Sunday, is hoping for a change of luck as he seeks regular first-team football.

"It was nice to play a part in Stiliyan Petrov's testimonial in front of 60,000 fans at the weekend," he said.

"As a footballer, as a player, that's all you want to do - play in front of big crowds, to show people you've still got the ability to play, hopefully in the Premier League.

"It's just frustrating that I'm not playing and it's hard to keep training and know there's no game at the end of the week.

"I'm fit as a fiddle, I feel really sharp and I'm just raring to get the chance if it comes along.

"Things can quickly change in football - injuries, suspensions, you never know - so if I do get my chance, then I've got to be ready to take it."

Given began the 2012/13 season as the number one at Villa in Paul Lambert's first season in charge but following the home defeat to Everton on the second weekend, during which the veteran stopper made an error in allowing Marounae Fellaini to score from a header, Guzan started every subsequent Premier League game.

Liverpool replaced Pepe Reina with Simon Mignolet but with uncertainty surround the capabilities of deputy Brad Jones, who last played for the club in March, the Merseysiders sought a genuine backup.

But Liverpool were unable to force through a move leaving Given to prepare for another season where he is expected to be marginalised throughout.