What a treat for the players.

A Newcastle United legend returned to training this week ahead of today’s head to head against Arsenal.

Shay Given joined in with the goalkeeper’s session 14 years after he hung up his NUFC gloves permanently. The Irish international made a whopping 463 appearances for the club and was part of the club’s European campaigns in the late 90s and early 00s.

Posting to Instagram, Given said: “Was great to be back at the @nufc training ground this week and to join in with the GKs was extra special , Thanks to Eddie Howe, his staff and all the players for making me feel so welcome, looking forward to the game later.”

Earlier this week the now-pundit spoke about how special Newcastle is to him and reminisced on his experiences with European football.

Speaking to nufc.com, he said: “The stand-out game for me has to be against Barcelona in the Champions League.”

Shay Given of Newcastle United in action during the UEFA Champions League, Group E match on October 1, 2002 between Juventus and Newcastle United played at the Stadio Delle Alpi in Turin, Italy. Juventus won the match 2-0. (Photo by Phil Cole/Getty Images) | Getty Images

placeholder image — Shay Given of Newcastle United in action during the UEFA Champions League, Group E match on October 1, 2002 between Juventus and Newcastle United played at the Stadio Delle Alpi in Turin, Italy. Juventus won the match 2-0. (Photo by Phil Cole/Getty Images) | Getty Images

“The atmosphere before, during and after the game was something I’d never had before or even after that because it was such a special night and maybe the fans realised how important they are in helping the team in big moments.

“We’ve seen this season the importance of the home fans and how difficult St. James’ Park is for teams to come to. There’s a really strong connection happening between the fans, manager, players and ownership of the club, and the direction of the club is making sure that something really special is happening.”