David Stockdale admits his next challenge is to become Fulham's No.1 goalkeeper ahead of Mark Schwarzer.
Cottagers keeper returns after injury
Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale admits his next challenge is to become the club's No.1 goalkeeper ahead of Mark Schwarzer.
The 25-year-old shot-stopper started the Cottagers' first four games of the season but suffered an injury and has been on the sidelines for four weeks.
Schwarzer has now returned to the Fulham goal despite strong speculation at the start of the campaign that a move to Arsenal was on the cards, but Stockdale wants to stake his claim for a first-team berth once more.
It has been suggested that the former York City and Darlington keeper is a natural successor to Schwarzer, and he reveals he has a long-term ambition to be Fulham's No.1.
"I have heard people say that, but I'll leave it to others to decide," he told the club's
official website.
"Of course, I have confidence that I can play a part here and make a difference, but after seven games it's difficult to say.
"I think this is a conversation for a later date, perhaps when I have made 20 to 25 appearances.
"I have shown that I can do a job, but the challenge now is to pass Mark when he's not injured - that's something that I have to aspire to.
"I'll take one step at a time, but make no mistake, I have ambitions of becoming Fulham's number one goalkeeper."
Frustrating
Stockdale admits his recent injury came at a frustrating time following his run in the starting XI, but says he is now ready for action once more.
He added: "It was a long four weeks, so it's nice to be in a position to play again.
"I perhaps rushed my recovery after injuring my knee at Blackpool, which probably extended my time on the sidelines - but I just wanted to get back.
"The international break gave me the chance to catch up and I've been working hard. The knee feels good and hopefully I will be part of the squad today."
