Mark Crossley is aiming to grasp his chance to become Fulham's number one.
Mark Crossley is aiming to grasp his chance to become Fulham's number one goalkeeper following Edwin van der Sar's sale to Manchester United.The veteran shot-stopper will be jostling with new signing Jaroslav Drobny to replace van der Sar as Chris Coleman's first choice.
Van der Sar's exit has opened the door again for Crossley, who had been poised for a loan move away from Craven Cottage.
Crossley had become frustrated at playing second fiddle to the Dutchman and admits he had discussed the option of a spell away from Fulham.
But with van der Sar now at Old Trafford, Crossley is determined to make the most of his second chance in West London.
"I spoke to the manager at the end of the season and we were talking about a year's loan," the 36-year-old told Sky Sports News.
"The move was possibly going to come off with a few Championship clubs but I would have still been contracted to Fulham.
"But obviously that's changed now Edwin's gone.
"The opportunity is there for me and Jaroslav so I'm sure we'll start off on an even keel. Whoever performs in pre-season will get the shirt at the start of the season and I'm hoping that's going to be myself."
The Wales keeper also backed van der Sar's switch to The Red Devils, affirming the former Juventus man will prove an astute capture.
He added: "I can't be more pleased for him. He deserves his move to Manchester United.
"I don't think anyone begrudges him that. He served Fulham well.
"Believe me, he will do a good job for them."
