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Goalkeeper Deren Ibrahim is ready to step up and play in Dartford’s biggest game of the season on Saturday.
Ibrahim, who’s just turned 24, started at FC Halifax last weekend because regular No.1 Jason Brown had a hamstring injury – and he helped the Darts earn a goalless draw.
Dartford hadn’t kept a clean sheet in their previous 30 league games so even if Brown is fit for the visit of fellow strugglers Alfreton, manager Tony Burman has a decision to make this weekend.
Ibrahim, whose previous outing was in the 6-1 loss at Dover in January, has played second fiddle to Brown all season but this could be his moment to shine.
He said: "People think I’m happy to sit on the bench but it’s not the case.
"I want to be considered for every game, even if Browny’s just won man-of-the-match. I’ll always give 100% in training and in the warm-up.
"If Tony wants to keep me in for Saturday against Alfreton, great, but if he doesn’t, I’ll be here again giving the best I possibly can.
"I’ve learnt a lot from Browny and Kess (goalkeeping coach Tony Kessell) this season but it would be wrong of me to sit on the bench and accept he’s the No.1. I wouldn’t be training to my full potential and I wouldn’t be pushing Browny.
"I want to push him every week and if he does make a mistake, I’ll be ready.
"It’s frustrating on Saturday when Tony reads the team sheet out (and I’m not starting) but if I’m called upon, I’ve got to be ready."
Read the full interview in the Dartford Messenger.