SHAY Given wants to spend the rest of his career with City - and make it a glorious finish.

The 33-year-old keeper is contracted to the Blues until 2013 and he has made it plain that he wants to remain at Eastlands for the duration.

Given will be the last line of defence for the Republic of Ireland as they seek to overturn a 1-0 deficit in France tonight and book an unlikely place at next summer's World Cup finals.

But he was quick to nail his colours to the City mast, saying: "I'd love to finish my career here.

"I haven't been here long but I already feel at home and love the club.

"I grew up a Celtic supporter and they have a big place in my heart but I really hope I can finish my career here. You can never say never but I'd like to think I will."

Given was bought from Newcastle for an initial £6m almost a year ago, and has since underlined his status as one of, if not the, best goalkeepers in the Premier League.

And he is convinced that the move was the right one to make, saying: "It's a great period to be at Manchester City. There's such excitement in the dressing room.

"There's a real feeling of optimism and we believe we're going places. It's been a great adventure for me and I couldn't be happier."

Manager Mark Hughes has urged a degree of caution on the chances of City winning something this season but Given says that even the league title is possible.

"If we win our game in hand we'll only be a couple of points behind United," he added. "We need to keep going and winning away games, which will be crucial.

"We have a fantastic team and a strong squad, but it will be tough because there are some great sides in this league."