Ross County’s Gary Woods is determined to put goalkeeping friendships aside to ensure there is no easy route back into the side for rival custodian Scott Fox.
On-loan Leyton Orient goalkeeper Woods has taken his place between the sticks since Fox was stretchered off with damaged ankle ligaments in last month’s 2-1 Highland derby defeat against Caley Thistle at Victoria Park.
Fox, who started the season as first choice after his move from Partick Thistle in the summer, will be out for at least another month, with manager Jim McIntyre recently drafting in former Scunthorpe United goalkeeper James Severn on a short-term contract.
Despite being closely acquainted with his fellow goalkeepers off the field, Woods has set his sights on keeping them out of the team by impressing for his side.
He said: “The goalkeeping union is quite a strange one because we all get on – but we are all competing.
“I get on really well with Scott but I want his shirt and he wants mine. We are competing for the one spot.
“It’s important we all get on. It makes it easier coming into the workplace knowing we get on with our fellow goalkeepers and the goalkeeping coach.
“It makes work a nice environment to enjoy.”
Woods joined the Staggies on the last day of the summer transfer window on a temporary deal until January and has now made five appearances since being handed his chance following Fox’s injury.
The Highlanders were beaten 1-0 by Dundee United at the weekend but, with back-to-back home games against Celtic and Motherwell coming up, Woods is determined to return to winning ways in front of the Dingwall faithful.
The 25-year-old added: “When we’re winning, spirits are high and the supporters get behind the team.
“From what I’ve seen so far the supporters have been brilliant so the more we can keep them coming to the games the better for us.”