Shay Given has been a professional footballer for more than 20 years, making his Blackburn back in 1994.
You don't have a career that long (obviously it helps that he's a goalkeeper) without putting in extra effort fitness-wise.
Speaking to John Fallon for the Irish Examiner, the 39-year-old explained that he has added elements to his fitness regime over the years which have been factors in prolonging his playing days.
What has kept me going this long? I suppose it’s from taking advice about little bits off the pitch. Things like having a protein shake and doing yoga, stretching and gym work - all the things people don’t see.
I’ve looked at other goalkeepers like Brad Friedel, Edwin van der Sar and Mark Schwarzer and been inspired. You get inspiration from other guys who go on long into their careers.
I’m as fit as I’ve been during my whole career. My body fat is my lowest ever. I feel good and sharp in training. That’s all you can go on for now.
Given certainly takes his stretching seriously. You might remember a clip of him using a football as an improvised foam roller during the FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool earlier this year.
