Newcastle United boss Chris Hughton has played down rumours suggesting he is interested in bringing Shay Given back to St James' Park.

The Manchester City shot-stopper has lost his place to Joe Hart at Eastlands and was linked with a move away from Roberto Mancini's side before the transfer window closed three weeks ago.

It had been suggested that Hughton was keen to bring the Republic of Ireland international to Tyneside after Steve Harper sustained a shoulder injury during Saturday's 1-0 victory at Everton.

However, when quizzed about the possibility, Hughton would only say the rumours were "wild stuff".

He had earlier said of Harper:"Steve is still being assessed. It's shoulder ligament damage and he'll be out for more than just weeks. We'll have to wait and see.

"We'll use the squad and there will be significant changes (for Wednesday's Carling Cup clash at Chelsea).

"I don't mind the supporters who are travelling down knowing that. You have to look at the members of the squad who didn't play at Everton. We have a lot of options and there will be changes to the team."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email