Shay Given's Indian summer is set to continue next season but it won't be with Aston Villa. Many had written off the Ireland goalkeeper after he had retired from international football and lost out to Brad Guzan in the fight for the no.1 spot at Villa Park.
However, following a loan at Middlesbrough, Given returned to Villa, proved his worth in the cup competitions and established himself as Tim Sherwood's number one. A return to the international scene followed and, at 39, Given looked back to somewhere near his best.
As such, it was assumed that the Donegal man would be back between the sticks at Villa Park this season but, in a surprising move, it seems he's about to drop down a division to rejoin Middlesbrough on a permanent deal.
A number of sources in England are reporting that the move is a done deal and will be confirmed in the next few days, with Villa prepared to allow Given to leave on a free transfer.
