THERE WAS NO fairytale return to Premier League action for Shay Given tonight.
Given’s Stoke City debut ended in a 4-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
A brace each Harry Kane and Dele Alli saw Tottenham keep their title charge on track with a comprehensive win that moves them to within five points of leaders Leicester City.
Given will celebrate his 40th birthday on Wednesday and was selected by Mark Hughes tonight ahead of Jakob Haugaard, who came in when Jack Butland picked up an injury.
It was Given’s first appearance since he injured a knee playing for the Republic of Ireland in a Euro 2016 qualifer against Germany in October and his first Premier League experience since a 6-1 defeat while playing for Aston Villa against Southampton last May.
Rampant Spurs made it a forgettable night for the Liffordman.
Spurs hit the front in the ninth minute when Kane riffled into the far corner.
Alli made it 2-0 on 67 miniutes when he converted in stle and, four minutes later, Kane tapped into an empty net.
Alli’s superb volley made it 4-0 and ended a painful night for Stoke and Given, who is aiming to win a place in Martin O’Neill’s Ireland plans for Euro 2016 now that he has his place back.
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