Shay Given declares that League leaders Chelsea are "on fire" for their big City of Manchester Stadium test - but he is backing Mark Hughes' buoyant Blues to douse the flames.

Republic of Ireland hero Shay, still buzzing from the 3-0 midweek win over Arsenal, insists City can get back on course today for a Champions League place after seven successive League draws.

Given was a virtual spectator as the Blues bounced back to form and booked a Carling Cup semi-final derby for the New Year with a sparkling second-half display that sent belief soaring.

He said: "Chelsea look very, very good. That are current favourites for the title and rightly so, they are really on fire. But we look forward to pitting our wits against them after we played so well against Arsenal.

We're all on a bit of a high now. I didn't have anything to do - it was nice to have a night off and enjoy three fantastic goals at the other end!

 Shay Given

"Wednesday night was a big boost to everyone. We also kept a clean sheet, so we'll take confidence from that as well. Roll on Saturday tea-time and a nice easy game against Chelsea!"

Shay Given, 33, targeted medals when he joined City. He added: "The last time we won a trophy was the year I was born! It's been too long for a club like Manchester City and the history they have.

"Hopefully we can change that. We're a step closer but we know there's still a lot of work to be done. The semi-final gives us a glimmer of hope, but whoever United pick it will be difficult.

"The top four is still our target, and it's wide open for somebody to sneak in there. We are only three points off fourth place so we're doing OK. We've only lost once - I think it was the 99th minute of injury time!

"We've some great players now and the manager is doing a great job, so we're quietly confident that we can do something. But it takes time - these things don't happen overnight."