
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley is sticking to his guns over the sale of, goalkeeper, Shay Given, reportedly telling the Irishman he won't be joining Manchester City unless the Eastlands outfit increase their most recent offer of £5 million.
The 32-year-old has been included in the Magpies' squad to face City on Wednesday evening.
However, the glove-man is expected to link up with Mark Hughes's
side before the transfer window closes, with Given - who joined the
Toon back in May 1997 - believed to be seeking a fresh challenge.
Newcastle are thought to be demanding a fee similar to that paid by
City for Craig Bellamy and Wayne Bridge - who cost £14m and £12m
respectively - taking advantage of the mass wealth currently at the
Blues''s disposal.
Meanwhile, the FA has fined Newcastle gaffer Joe Kinnear £500 after he described referee Martin Atkinson as a "Mickey mouse referee" following his side's 2-1 defeat to Fulham in November.
Kinnear is facing a seperate improper conduct charge after a touchline clash with Hull boss Phil Brown during an FA Cup Third Round replay on January 14, with both managers being sent to the stands by, referee, Phil Dowd.
However, the United manager was found not guilty of using abusive and insulting words towards a match official during his team's 2-2 draw with Stoke in December. The FA claimed that it could not be proved.
if he leaves newcastle are doomed.
Shearer.. please come back