DANNY Wilson has called on his two new goalkeepers to prove they are worthy of a starting spot at Hartlepool United.
Arran Lee-Barrett and Jan Budtz have replaced Dimi Konstantopoulos and Jim Provett at Victoria Park after last season's promotion keepers departed when their contracts ran out.
Both his new arrivals - among six the Pools boss has brought in so far - were given 45 minutes each against Newcastle United on Tuesday.
Lee-Barrett impressed against the Magpies, making a string of fine stops without conceding, while Budtz later allowed a tame Shola Ameobi shot through his grasp to give the Premiership side a 3-1 win.
"All the new signings contributed - it's the first time they have played a game and that includes in training, because we have yet to have an 11 v 11 full-scale game yet,'' said Wilson.
"We've brought in a few new players and they will provide good competition throughout the squad next season.
"I don't mind whoever is in goal at Luton on August 11 - it's down to whoever is in form at that time. We have two new keepers and it's down to them to push each other and down to them to show me who will start.''
In the absence of Micky Nelson, who underwent a summer knee operation, Godwin Antwi started in central defence, bringing praise from his new manager.
"Antwi was excellent, particularly in the first-half,'' said Wilson.
"He's young and inexperienced, but I think, from what we have seen of him so far he will have a great season.
"He will get an understanding going in the back four, he has pace, he wants to get on the ball and he is a very strong boy.
"He's been well brought up at Liverpool, like they all are. It's not a bad place to learn your game is it?
"He stood out against us last season for Accrington and he's stood out against a top-quality side in Newcastle United on Tuesday.
"He didn't give much away against Martins and Carroll.''
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article