SHAY Given has added his backing to Manchester City’s pursuit of Villa’s James Milner.

The Eastlands goalkeeper played with the versatile England man at Newcastle and rates him highly.

City have already had a £20 million offer for the 23-year-old rejected.

But they are poised to return and Given would love to see Milner arrive.

“He has had a great season,” said Given. “He played some fantastic football when I was at Newcastle with him as well.

“He’s a quality all round player. He has got bags of ability, a great left foot and right foot, so he’s a very good talent.

“If he comes to the club great, if he doesn’t he has had a great time under Martin O’Neill at Aston Villa.”