April 24 2007

Julian Speroni

Crystal Palace keeper Julian Speroni wants to pay back his mentor Gabor Kiraly - by taking his place in the team.

Speroni, 27, has played second fiddle to Hungarian international Kiraly over the past three years making just 19 apearances in that time.

The former Dundee man admits he has improved by working with his good pal Kiraly in training - but has his sights on becoming the new number one.

He said: “When you have another keeper like Gabor at the club, you know he’s going to be No. 1.

“He’s an experienced international with over 70 caps for his country. I’ve learned a lot from him. But now I want to try to be the No. 1 if I can.

“I would like to stay here and play more often. If I play more, I’m confident of becoming the club’s No. 1.”

Despite conceding two goals in Saturday’s defeat at Barnsley, Speroni says he was thrilled to be playing again.

Competition for places and injuries has restricted Speroni to just three appearances this term.

“I’ve been working really hard in training every week, so to play was the icing on the cake,” said the Argentine.

“I felt sharp, even though I haven’t played for the first team for a while. It’s been a frustrating season for me, because I’ve never suffered with injuries in the past. So it was a new experience for me.”