3/1 To Win
Shay Given has expressed his delight at being back in the day-to-day football environment after he was confirmed as Derby County’s Head Goalkeeping Coach.
The former Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper will officially join Frank Lampard’s backroom team on 9th July as the Rams prepare for the upcoming 2018/19 Sky Bet Championship campaign.
Given retired from playing at the end of the 2016/17 season and although he has spent some time working in the media alongside obtaining his coaching qualifications, he is relishing the opportunity to get back into the rhythm that he enjoyed during a superb 23-year playing career.
Speaking exclusively to dcfc.co.uk, he said: “I’m excited to be a part of the journey with Derby, it’s a massive opportunity for me.
“Frank Lampard is one of the biggest names in football, so to be a part of his staff is something that I jumped at.
“I finished my career at Stoke just over a year ago and the media has been going well and I’ve enjoyed it. But, I do miss the everyday involvement with a team and players.
“There have been days where I have wished that I was still playing, and you do miss that side of things. I’m an outgoing person as well so I enjoy the craic and the banter.”
He added: “I’ve said to Frank that although I’m coaching the goalkeepers I would like to think that I can give something to the outfield players as well.”
Given explained that although he is joining the club as a specialist coach to work with the likes of Scott Carson, Kelle Roos and Jonathan Mitchell, the modern game means that he can also influence the rest of the squad.
“I’m finishing my goalkeeping A license and I’ve been working with defenders and midfielders, in terms of defending as a unit and playing out from the back,” he explained.
“It’s more than just working with the goalkeepers, I’ve spoken to Frank in-depth about what I think I can bring and he’s very open about that.”
The 42-year-old has an excellent reputation within the game after a playing career in which he made over 450 appearances for Newcastle United in the top flight, while he also became Ireland’s most capped goalkeeper of all time.
Now, Given is relishing the opportunity to achieve success as a part of a coaching set-up for the first time.
He explained: “I’m a part of a different team now, it’s the coaching and management side and that is a team in itself.
“We will be working hard to get the results on the pitch and we all have to bounce off each other and get the best out of the team.”
