Shay Given has played down speculation linking him with Arsenal by pledging to stay at Newcastle.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is rumoured to be planning a move for the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper as he seeks a replacement for Jens Lehmann.

But Given says he has no plans to leave St James' Park and hopes to end his career on Tyneside.

"I have three years left on my contract and I am very settled in the north east," said Given. "I see myself staying at Newcastle for the rest of my career.

"I've been with Newcastle since 1997 and I'll soon be getting a Geordie twang.  It's a great football club with fantastic fans, so I have no reason to leave."

Given also revealed his recovery from a groin operation was going well.

He added: "I've been keeping fit and training hard...and in a couple of weeks I'll be able to join up with Newcastle again for the start of pre-season."