Given was magnificent in Newcastle's 0-0 draw at high-flying Chelsea

Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi believes team-mate Shay Given is among the world's great goalkeepers following Saturday's 0-0 draw with Chelsea.

Given, 32, kept the league leaders at bay with a string of fine saves and Ameobi hailed the confidence he gives to the rest of the team.

"Shay is world-class, there's no doubt about it," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"He proves his worth week-in, week-out and he's done it again. We're delighted that he is here."

With Middlesbrough going down to defeat by Bolton at the Riverside on Saturday, Newcastle's result means they go into Saturday's Tees-Tyne derby in positive spirit.

Having grown up in Newcastle, the 27-year-old striker realises the importance of local derbies and is keen to feature in the plans of manager Joe Kinnear.

"They've been beaten so it's going to be very important for them and it will be a great match," he said.

"We've lost one derby this season and we don't want to lose another one, we need the points to keep climbing up that table.

"It's a place I like playing, and if I get the nod to play then I'll be doing all I can to make sure we win in style."

Ameobi has made 11 appearances so far this season, scoring three goals, including a consolation in the defeat by rivals Sunderland.

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