SHAY Given heads to Fratton Park knowing his former Newcastle United team-mates Laurent Robert and Lomana LuaLua won't be testing him out on Saturday.

Robert is prevented from facing the Magpies in Pompey colours because of Premier League rules relating to loan players, while LuaLua has been receiving hospital treatment for malaria this week.

Both men have an eye for the spectacular goal and Given won't be too disappointed that neither will threaten his aim of keeping a third consecutive Premiership clean sheet.

The Irish ace, who could nevertheless still face a reunion with former United defensive duo Andy O'Brien and Andy Griffin, told Newcastle World TV: "There are quite a few Newcastle connections there, but it's all about what we do on the day. If we can go there and everyone is on top of their game then we can win.

"We've kept two clean sheets in a row and three in the Premiership so far this season and it would be nice to get another one at Portsmouth.

"The whole team are working hard to keep things tight - but if we have to win the game 5-4 then we'll take that as well!"

Watch the FULL Shay Given interview on Newcastle World as he speaks about his old pals at Pompey, the lift Michael Owen's arrival has given everyone at the club PLUS why he's still hoping his World Cup dream can stay alive.

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