Given was not one of Hughes' most costly signings at £8 million during the January transfer window, but the former Newcastle shot-stopper is proving to be one of the most significant in City's bid to break into the Barclays Premier League top four.

He produced a string of fine saves during the goalless draw including a second-half penalty save to deny Birmingham midfielder James McFadden after skipper Nigel De Jong had handled.

Hughes said: "Given played very well. We are pleased that he did. He saved a penalty and kept us in the game and allowed us to take something out of the game.

"I gave him a glowing tribute leading into the game. I don't think he needed it, and it didn't inspire his performance against Birmingham, because he does that very capably on his own.

"He is an outstanding goalkeeper and has been for the majority of his career."

Meanwhile ex-Liverpool midfielder Ronnie Whelan has accused manager Rafa Benitez of prioritising the Champions League ahead of the Reds' faltering Premier League campaign.

Benitez saw his side slip nine points behind leaders Chelsea following their disheartening 3-1 defeat at Fulham on Saturday, when they also had defenders Philipp Degen and Jamie Carragher sent off.

Whelan believes the loss was preventable, however, highlighting Benitez's decision to substitute star striker Fernando Torres after an hour when the scores were locked at 1-1.

Torres has been struggling with injury in recent weeks, but regardless Whelan - who won six league title during his career at Anfield - believes the decision to withdraw him was reflective of Benitez's priorities ahead of the Reds' Champions League trip to Lyon on Wednesday.

"It's all gone wrong with the manager and he's shown exactly where his priorities lie," said Whelan. "He wants to win the European Cup so he can get a job in Europe. For me, his days have got to be numbered at Liverpool."

Sir Alex Ferguson is looking for his Manchester United side to build up a head on steam in the coming months.

A 2-0 victory against Blackburn at the weekend saw the champions get back on track in the Barclays Premier League, following their defeat by Liverpool.

United now have a big week.

They face CSKA Moscow in the Champions League tomorrow, when a fourth straight victory should secure a place in the next stage.

Then on Sunday they travel to Stamford Bridge and a meeting with leaders Chelsea.

Ferguson said: "We are experienced enough at this club to know how difficult it is to win the league."