Elliot Keen To Build On Pre-Season Performances

By Dan King - Newcastle United Digital Editor

Rob Elliot is determined to take his fine pre-season form into the new campaign and continue to push Tim Krul for the number one shirt.

Krul is currently riding on the crest of a wave after becoming one of the stars of the World Cup with his penalty heroics for Holland, but Elliot has enjoyed a great summer himself.

He got married, made his international debut for Ireland and has put in some impressive displays - and kept three clean sheets - during United's pre-season games in New Zealand and Germany and against Sheffield Wednesday.

Last term, Elliot made just two appearances in the Barclays Premier League and he knows that opportunities may be few and far between again this time around.

But the 28-year-old is confident that if and when they do arise, he'll be ready to take them - and banish memories of conceding eight goals in his two league starts last season.

"It's a bit of a strange one for a 'keeper, conceding four goals in both games," he told nufc.co.uk.

"The Southampton game was probably one of the busiest games I've had but you have to hold your hands up - we were poor and they were excellent.

"It was a tough one for me. I was pleased with the saves I made and I tried to keep the score down but we just got a bit overwhelmed.

"And against Man United, they were clinical on the break and I sort of felt like it didn't give a true reflection of how I'd trained and worked.

"But that's football. Sometimes you can go out as a 'keeper, not touch the ball and keep a clean sheet; other times, you get a few put past you.

"It just gives you more determination this season to make sure the situation doesn't happen again.

"Hopefully when I get my opportunity next time, it'll come out better for myself and the team."

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