Having broken into the first team at such an early stage of his Town career Dean Gerken has spoken of his determination to remain the club’s number one for as long as possible.
Gerken, 28, made his first senior outing in the Capital One Cup defeat at Stevenage then was called up by boss Mick McCarthy for his league debut in the 1-1 draw at Birmingham almost a fortnight ago.
He is set to continue as first-choice goalkeeper when Tony Mowbray’s Middlesbrough visit Portman Road today, although he knows just one below-par display could see Scott Loach restored to the starting line-up.
Gerken, signed on a free transfer after his release by Bristol City following their relegation to League One, said: "I’m in the team now and it’s all about keeping my place.
"At all my clubs I have always wanted to be in the team and never settled for being the back-up keeper. It’s up to me to make sure I stay in the side.
"I’m looking forward to the Middlesbrough game. They are a good team to be playing and there’s always going to be a good crowd at Portman Road.
"I’ve always loved playing there anyway because it’s a good old-fashioned stadium, good pitch and there are good facilities around the ground. I’m really looking forward to just getting out there and playing the game.
"I remember I had a good game there for Bristol City. The crowd are right on top of you, the pitch is always lovely and overall it’s a good place to play football.
"I’m sure a lot of teams enjoy coming down and playing at Portman Road because of the facilities but our job is to make it uncomfortable for them when they get here.”
The Boro clash is the first of a Portman Road double-header, with Gary Johnson’s newly-promoted Yeovil next in town just three days later.
Gerken added: "It’s definitely an opportunity to get some points on the board. Your home games are so important and we fancy our chances against anyone at home. As the home team you tend to take the game to the opposition and I think we’ll do alright.”
Photo: ITFC