Manager Paul Lambert will allow goalkeeper Shay Given to leave Aston Villa if an acceptable offer comes in, reports the Mirror.

The 37-year old former Manchester City and Newcastle stopper has become surplus to requirements at Villa Park, finding himself number three in the pecking order after first choice keeper Brad Guzan and youngster Jed Steer.

Lambert had nothing but praise for Given, though, and said he would not stand in his way if he wants a move to get first team football.

“One thing with Shay is that he has been excellent. He is a great pro. He does everything right and a great goalkeeper," Lambert said.

“I’ve spoken to Shay and if something happens, we will look at it. He wants to play. There is no two ways about it. He wants to play.

"But he is a positive influence around the place and that’s one thing you can never say about Shay, that’s he’s not a good professional.”

Offers are yet to materialise for the former Irish international, who has two-and-a-half years left on his contract. He was wanted by Liverpool as a backup for Simon Mignolet in the summer, but the transfer collapsed on deadline day.

Championship side Doncaster are also interested in the stopper on a loan deal.

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