SHAY Given's consistent brilliance between the posts for Newcastle United was recognised when he received two accolades at the Princes Trust 2006 North East Football Awards.

The Irish ace lifted the prestigious Player of the Year award and also took the trophy for Save of the Season for the second year running - this time for a brilliant reaction stop to thwart Thierry Henry in last season's 1-0 win over Arsenal at St. James' Park.

Shay was unable to attend the award ceremony in person as he is still recovering from surgery following the nasty injury suffered in the 2-0 victory at West Ham United. In his absence, Steve Harper and Glenn Roeder collected the trophies on his behalf.

But he was a popular sight at St. James' Park on Tuesday morning when he was able to attend for the 2006/07 official team photocall. 

Shay told nufc.co.uk: "I'm very pleased to win both of the awards.

"I'd also like to thank everyone who has sent me Get Well messages since I got injured at West Ham. Thanks for all the support and I hope it's not too long before I'm back out playing again."

Shay doesn't have long to wait before collecting another award. For he has also been voted the North East Football Writers' Player of the Season for last term and he will receive that award later in the year.

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