Dave Richards is aiming to claim the number one spot this summer after the long serving Ben Garratt departed the club. Richards is currently battling it out with youngster Will Jaaskelainen for the shirt with boss David Artell going on record to say that there is not a lot between the two goalkeepers.
The boss has the decision to make in a few weeks’ time when Ryan Lowe’s Plymouth Argyle side arrive in South Cheshire for the season opener on 3rd August.
The 25-year-old Welshman told the club’s official website: “The gaffer has been good as gold and said it is up to us to fight it out to be number one, so I’ll keep my head down and keep working hard and, fingers crossed, get the shirt.
“It’s hard because me and Will are top mates outside of football, but there is only one spot and we both know we have to go for it.
“I really want to cement that place and get to where I want to be. I enjoy the pressure side of things so it is up to me to push myself. I’m looking forward to it.
“So far pre-season has been brilliant. Fred (Barber) is working us really hard, and when we join the rest of the group we are put through our paces with the running and the small-sided games.
“This is my fifth season here now so I know how it all works, the ins and outs of the club, so this is the year fingers crossed.
“I need consistency and to be a presence in the goal. Keeping the ball out, that’s the key.”