Hoult is number one choice

There is no doubt who Notts County fans want as their side's safe pair of hands for the forthcoming campaign.

Number 1: Hoult is Notts' fans preferred goalkeeper...

73.5 percent of the 113 fans that participated in Notts County Mad's most recent poll declared that Russell Hoult would be their first choice goalkeeper.

This was undoubtedly down to his consistently tremendous performances at the back end of last season, following his arrival on loan from Premiership new boys Stoke City.

Hoult demonstrated unrivalled aerial ability, commanding his area with a swagger that you would associate with a stopper at a much higher level.

In the 14 games he played, Notts kept an impressive seven clean sheets, helping to counter the side's attacking impotency, but more importantly playing a significant role in maintaining the club's league status.

Ultimately, the 35-year old - who was once knocking on the door for an England call up - was deemed too valuable an asset for Ian McParland to pass up, despite the club already having two goalkeepers on the books.

The Magpies' gaffer has also placed Hoult as his first choice 'keeper, handing

Opportunity: Pilkington could start the season as first choice as Hoult will miss much of pre-season...

him the number one jersey - a shirt that Pilkington has possessed since joining the club three long years ago.

Pilkington has already unveiled his disappointment at the decision, but has outlined his determination to reclaim the number one spot.

Speaking to the Nottingham Evening Post, he declared: "I thought I did very well for the club last season. I got Players' Player of the Year and Supporters' Player of the Year, so I must have done something right.

"So to walk in and find out you are not number one at the football club is very disappointing and very hard to take.

"I will go out there and give it my damnedest to prove I am still number one. If it's not good enough, it's not good enough."

22.1 percent of fans still believed that Pilkington - now assigned the number 12 shirt - should be given the chance to reproduce the outstanding form from last year, this season.

With Hoult fracturing his right tibia, ruling him out for the majority of pre-season, last season's Player of the Year may well step onto the field at Valley Parade in less than three weeks time as the first choice option.

Waiting game: Sandercombe may have to bide his time...

Should he not appear in the starting line-up that day, Pilkington - who is arguably the better shot stopper of the two - will definitely keep Hoult on his toes, as he will be hungry to repossess his spot between the sticks.

The remaining 4.4 percent believed that unproven youngster, Tim Sandercombe, should be given a fair crack of the whip.

Chances could be few and far between for the former Plymouth Argyle youth, having two accomplished performers ahead of him in the pecking order.

There is a good chance that he will be sent out on loan to gain that much needed experience before becoming a serious first-team contender.

Poll Results:
Who should start the new season in goal for Notts?
Russell Hoult - 73.5%
Kevin Pilkington - 22.1%
Tim Sandercombe - 4.4%