Ref. 25730-93RHYS EVANS is under no illusions that he faces a tough fight with Bart Griemink for the right to be called Town's first choice goalkeeper.
The Swindonian, who signed in double-quick time to play in last night's 0-0 draw against Wolves, knows his Dutch rival at the County Ground has no intention of simply stepping aside to assist his international ambitions.
Evans, the current England Under 21 keeper, said: "I am looking to push Bart (Griemink) as hard as I can for the number one spot.
"Hopefully I can prove what I can do during the pre-season games and convince the manager that I should start the season.
"But I know there are no guarantees and I'm neither arrogant or ignorant enough to think I'm just going to walk straight into the team."
No-one can question that Evans is keen to get started. The ink was still wet on a two-year contract as he pulled on a Town shirt for the first time.
He completed his move to the County Ground just an hour before the kick-off against Wolverhampton Wanderers last night but made his debut as a second half substitute against the Premiership newcomers.
He said: "I wasn't sure if I would be playing or not. I came in to sign my contract and have my medical but I brought my kit with me just in case.
"I hadn't played since the last game for the England Under 21s and I felt a little bit rusty initially.
"Generally, I hope people can see that I do have potential and have something to offer.
"I want to be successful and I want Swindon Town to be successful. Hopefully it is a deal which will benefit both parties.
"The club have not had to pay a transfer fee and if I continue to progress then there might be the chance to make a profit on me, all being well.
"And with family and friends still in Swindon, you never know, the club might sell a few more season tickets as a result of me coming here."
Evans said it had been a rollercoaster few days but was delighted when the call finally came through yesterday afternoon to confirm that his deal would go through.
He said: "I'd spent the day just waiting for news to be honest. Now that it's sorted my girlfriend and I can start looking to putting roots down in Swindon.
"That's important with a baby on the way.
"A lot of hard work has been done to make this deal happen and I'm very positive about it."
Manager Andy King is delighted to have agreed a deal with Evans, who turned down both Bolton and West Ham United in order to come to the County Ground.
He said: "It was a massive opportunity for this football club.
"I didn't feel Bart Griemink was put under enough pressure last season. I think this lad will probably provide that.
"It is another compliment to this football club that we have attracted a young goalkeeper with international experience."
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