A TEENAGE goalkeeper from Kent could be facing the strike force of Wayne Rooney and Ruud Van Nistlerooy when Exeter take on Manchester United in the FA Cup next month.

Paul Jones, a former Snodland Nomads keeper, signed a professional contract with Leyton Orient just a month ago - but he was immediately loaned to Conference side Exeter City.

Jones, 18, who was once on Charlton’s books, was expected to keep the bench warm for the Devon side, but he was suddenly thrust into the limelight when Exeter’s regular keeper James Bittner was sent off for a professional foul at Dagenham & Redbridge.

His first act as an Exeter player was to save a penalty and his subsequent displays for the Grecians mean he stands every chance of keeping his place when Bittner completes his suspension.

That could mean having a key role when Exeter take on Sir Alex Ferguson's men at Old Trafford in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday, January 8.

Jones is a former pupil at Oakwood Park Grammar School in Maidstone. His father Roger told the Kent Messenger: "Whatever happens he’s on the bench. It’s the manager’s decision if he’s picked, so it’s 50/50."

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