Kennedy’s comments immediately alerted potential suitors to the 32-year-old’s possible availability amid speculation that Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City were on his trail.

However, Kinnear claimed to have spent half an hour with the Republic of Ireland international, who signed a new five-year contract back in 2006, before training yesterday morning and emerged from their talks in a positive frame of mind.

Asked if he believed he and the club’s hierarchy have to persuade Given he can fulfil his ambitions at St James’ Park, Kinnear said: “I don’t think it’s that serious, to be honest.

“The boy has been here 11 years, he has given fantastic service to the club.

“The contract was put to Shay and he signed it until 2011, it’s as simple as that really.”