Roy Carroll Wants Number One Jersey

Howard has had an impressive start to life at Old Trafford, but a short run of poor performances saw the American international dropped to the bench due to 'fatigue and mental stress' which gave Carroll a chance between the sticks against Tottenham Hotspur. The Ulsterman kept a clean sheet against Spurs with a solid performance, and looks in line to play Sunday's key Premiership clash against Arsenal at Highbury.

Since joining from fellow Lancashire side Wigan Athletic in July 2001 for £2.5million, Carroll has been a dependable second choice 'keeper who has served well whenever called upon. However, he has not yet managed to establish himself as first-choice 'keeper, making only 32 appearances in all competitions since signing from the Latics. The Northern Irish international now hopes after 3 years as playing second fiddle, he can challenge to make the place between the sticks his own.

"The manager hasn't told me I will be playing against Arsenal yet but it will be a big boost to me if he does." said the former Hull City trainee.

"If I play against Arsenal, I won't put myself under any more pressure than I do normally but obviously it would be a chance I want to take.

"When I came to United I knew I had to learn my trade for a couple of seasons but I want to establish myself as number one sooner rather than later."

Fabien Barthez and Ricardo, both enjoying loan spells away from the club, are expected to leave United on a permanent basis at the end of the season. This means Carroll would only have Tim Howard to contend with for the number one jersey next year.

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