Shez Picking Up The Bitts

JOHN Sheridan believes new signing James Bittner will relish the prospect of contributing to Argyle’s high aspirations.

The 32 year-old signed a one-year deal earlier this week, and Shez has already been impressed by the shot-stopper’s attitude and rapport with his new team-mates.

“I’m pleased to get a backup keeper,” said the manager. “He has got a bit of experience, been at Salisbury City and on the bench at Newport County, so he has been around. I think he is at a good age, and he is a good lad as well.

“He trained really well this morning, fitted in well with the lads. It is important I got one in, partly for training purposes, but hopefully he will be a good backup to Luke (McCormick).”

Whilst last season saw McCormick battle for a starting place with Jake Cole, Bittner knows he will take a secondary role to his team-mate, ready to step in if necessary.

Said John: “He knows the situation – that Luke’s going to be number one, but I think he would be a really good stand-in if anything happens to Luke.

“I have asked about him, and people have spoken highly of him. Warren (Feeney) spoke really highly of him, so he is a solid backup.

“He was doing a little bit of coaching this morning (in training), but Rhys Wilmot is the goalkeeper coach, so he will come in primarily as a ‘keeper, and we want him to try and get himself in the first team.”