Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has urged Newcastle to arrange a new contract for Michael Owen "sooner rather than later".

Owen is in the final year of his current deal at St James' Park and has yet to agree on an extension with the Magpies.

Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan is optimistic of keeping Owen and long-serving goalkeeper Given has outlined the importance of retaining the England international.

"It is between Michael and the club, but in an ideal world we would all like his contract sorted out sooner rather than later," said Given.

"At the same time though, he has got the rest of the season with his current contract.

"He has got a presence about him.

"Michael is a world renowned centre-forward and a world renowned goalscorer. When he leads us out, it sends a message to other teams.

"It tells them that we have some real quality in our side. He is the most world renowned player we have at the club."

Meanwhile, former Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy has been linked with a move to Manchester City but his current boss Alan Curbishley has described the speculation as "nonsense".

Reports have suggested that City and West Ham were in talks over a deal for the Wales international.

The Hammers accepted a bid from Sunderland for Anton Ferdinand over the weekend but Curbishley does not expect any more departures from the club.

Bellamy only moved to Upton Park from Liverpool 12 months ago and Curbishley plans to keep the striker.

Asked about the link with City, Curbishley told Sky Sports News: "It is nonsense.

"I don't think anybody else will be going. Craig Bellamy is in full training today."