RYAN Clarke says he has no issue with Oxford United bringing in another experienced goalkeeper for the rest of the season.

The 32-year-old recently passed 250 appearances for the club, but faces increased competition for his place in the side.

Jamie Ashdown, who was on the bench when Portsmouth won the FA Cup final in 2008, could be in the squad for the first time tomorrow.

Two years Clarke’s senior, he kept a clean sheet on his United debut with a 1-0 development side win at Birmingham City on Wednesday.

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The signing is designed to allow back-up stopper Max Crocombe to go out on loan, but head coach Michael Appleton also felt it would keep Clarke on his toes.

United’s No 1 is no stranger to being pushed by others, but did not take it personally.

“Of course not, it’s for the club and the competition,” Clarke said.

“It’s happened all the time, there have been plenty of keepers come in.

“If it means it gets a little bit more out of me then so be it, but I tend to think it’s never really taken that to get it out of me.”

He added: “We all get on, Jamie has come in and is a great lad.

“I’ve got to make sure I keep my place in the team and I’m sure when he was playing he was having to do the same thing.”

Clarke’s form over the past couple of seasons has limited Crocombe’s opportunities.

The 21-year-old has made just six appearances since making his debut two years ago.

United rate the New Zealand-born keeper, but think a spell on loan playing regularly is needed to enhance his development.

Clarke is certain it will do his deputy, who has been the subject of interest from a couple of clubs already, the world of good.

He said: “I think that’s what he needs, he’s a great lad and has all the attributes but he needs to get games under his belt consistently and earn his stripes.

“I’ve been in exactly the same position and had to take a couple of steps back in the Conference South or whatever it may have been to get 40 games under your belt.

“It gives you a good grounding and gets you playing under pressure for points and league position.”

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