Goalkeeper coach Andy Rhodes says that Lewis Price is currently slightly ahead of Town's other keeper Shane Supple. Boss Joe Royle has left the number one shirt vacant this season to encourage the pair to compete for the position of regular first team keeper.

Rhodes says that Price's greater experience will mean he will initially get the nod: "Lewis is a little bit ahead in terms of experience and maturity. He has played in games and has shown he is capable.

"That is not to say that Shane would not be ready if he has to be. He probably needs another 12 months to develop physically, which is possibly his only weakness. In terms of attitude he is ready, as we have seen."

Price, 21, has made eight senior starts for Town (plus one sub appearance) and six while on loan at Cambridge United last season. The Bournemouth-born stopper received his first senior Wales call earlier this year and has won six U21 caps, qualifying for the principality through his father.

Supple, 18, was one of the stars of the FA Youth Cup-winning side and will probably make his first team debut in the Carling Cup tie at home to Yeovil on Tuesday, August 23rd. The Dubliner has won Ireland caps at various youth levels up to U17.

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