Wenger rules out Given swoop

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted he is not in the market to sign Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given.

The Frenchman described the speculation as "normal" and reiterated he has no interest in bringing in the 32-year-old Republic of Ireland international during the January transfer window.

Wenger dismissed the statement made by Given's lawyer, Michael Kennedy, who claimed Manchester City and Tottenham were also interested in signing the goalkeeper, who has become disillusioned after 11 years at St James' Park.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal's FA Cup third-round meeting with Championship side Plymouth on Saturday, Wenger said: "We have not made any enquiry about Shay Given. I don't know who he has spoken to at the club but it is not me.

"It doesn't annoy me and it is part of agent's statements. I don't believe it helps you, but I believe it is what we call in this job "normal business" and we have to deal with that.

"I believe that what is important is what happens inside the club. You want the inside of the club to deal well with what people say and what the comments are.

"I have high regards for Shay Given as a player but we do not look for a goalkeeper."