GOALKEEPER Eric Barrett arrived at Hardenhuish this week and immediately vowed Mark Hervin has a fight on his hands to keep hold of the number one shirt.

Barrett, 19, has signed for Chippenham from Gloucester City reserves on a non-contract basis and was due to attend his first training session last night.

The youngster watched Chippenham's 3-0 victory against Havant on Saturday and, although impressed by Hervin's performance between the posts, insisted he had his sights set on displacing him.

He said: "He did make some good saves but I have not come here just to be a bit part player.

"I live in Gloucester so if I was just going to sit on the bench all the time I could have gone to Gloucester City and not had the bother of extra travelling.

"I definitely want to become Chippenham's first choice keeper and I will hopefully get the chance to prove myself."

Barrett is in his second year of a psychology degree at Gloucester University and has one more year left after this.

Originally from Crawley, he enjoyed a spell at Brighton and Hove Albion academy before being released at the age of 16 and joining Dr Martens Premier League side Crawley Town.

"I was impressed with what I saw on Saturday," he said.

"It seems quite a tidy town and it is a nice ground so I am looking forward to it.

"I heard it was their first home win all season so perhaps I am a lucky omen."

White believes Barrett is a good prospect.

He said: "He has played once or twice in Gloucester's first team. He is a nice lad and seems to want to progress.

"We have struggled all season to find a young keeper that is capable of providing cover for Hervin.

"He has come here highly recommended by my scout Sean Hughes and we are delighted to be able to have a look at him.

"I think if players are good enough then they are old enough.

"We have had some great results in recent weeks through massive endeavour and young legs being able to cover the ground.

"So age is no factor if they are good enough, they will play."