Who will replace Marriott?

By Nathan Jackson
May 24 2005

After speaking to Alan Marriott after the aggregate win over Macclesfield, it seems inevitable that he’s going to leave in the summer. So regrettably, the Imps will be looking for a new keeper so now we look at some of the candidates.

Simon Rayner

 

The current number 2 at Sincil Bank would probably be the easiest choice as a replacement and seemed like a really good keeper whenever he’s played. Despite only playing 2 first team games this season, he looks to have a good potential although his kicking could do with a bit of work.

 

Chris Day

 

Ex Lincoln loanee has recently been surprisingly released by Championship side, QPR. Excellent shot stopper and brilliant at getting down low despite his height. The keeper said when he returned to Watford following a 3 month loan spell, that he wouldn’t mind playing at Sincil Bank again one of these days and I for one would welcome him back.

 

Jim Provett

 

Having a soft spot for Hartlepool, I am very keen to follow their progress and last season, a young keeper broke through and performed outstandingly to win the Poolie’s “Player of the Season.” However, this season saw him replaced by his back up, Dimitrious Konstantoplous (spelling) who proved one of the best keeper’s in League One and proved a hero, saving 2 penalties in the Playoff Semi Final against Tranmere. Jim went onto the transfer list about 2 months ago and would prove an excellent replacement for Marriott.

 

Scott Howie

 

Scott was the goalkeeper at Shrewsbury until being recently released. In the 2 meetings against Lincoln, he proved a good goalkeeper and if it wasn’t for him, City would have absolutely thrashed Shrewsbury a few months ago. However, whether he would be an adequate replacement for Marriott would be a different question all together and I would be a little edgy if he proved to be the replacement.

 

Kevin Pilkington

 

The former Manchester United trainee is one of the best goalkeepers in League 2 and despite a few mistakes here and there, his general shot stopping is excellent. In recent meetings, he’s appeared to have a great respect for Lincoln fans but I feel the fee Mansfield would command could easily rule him out as a replacement.

 

John Lukic

 

An extremely highly rated young goalkeeper just released by Nottingham Forest. However, inexperience could be his downfall if City signed him.