Newcastle keeper Given has stomach surgery

LONDON, Sep 18 (Reuters) Newcastle United's Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has had stomach surgery after getting injured in their victory over West Ham United, the Premier League club said today.

Given spent the night in a London hospital after suffering the injury in the latter stages of yesteday's 2-0 win at Upton Park. He was carried off on a stretcher and was later taken to hospital after feeling unwell after the game.

Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder told the club's internet site: ''Shay has had surgery to repair a small tear in his lower stomach.

He is comfortable and will have a short stay in hospital.

''We'll let things settle down now and it's too early to be putting any date on when he'll be expected back.'' As at Upton Park, Given's place between the posts is expected to go to Steve Harper.

REUTERS PM BS1542