Cooper: All the keepers have a chance
00:00, 01 July 2005
GILLINGHAM manager Neale Cooper is keeping an open mind about his goalkeeping options after making stopper Tony Bullock his first signing.
Bullock joined the Gills on a two-year contract – to become the club’s fifth keeper – after rejecting the opportunity of staying at Dundee United.
The 33-year-old will be fighting alongside Steve Banks, Jason Brown, Bertrand Bossu and Danny Knowles for a first-team spot.
And with the squad back in training, Cooper will be able to assess who he wants to stay.
He said: "They’ll come back and we’ll have a look at them – they’ve all got a chance. I’m looking forward to meeting all the players and then we’ll know better."
Bullock and Cooper worked together previously in Scotland, and he is the first of several new faces expected to make their way to Priestfield in the next few weeks.
Cooper said: "I worked with Tony at Ross County in the Highlands for two years. He went to Dundee United and did really well for them and I know they tried to re-sign him as he’s a good keeper.
"He played at Barnsley and then came up to Scotland. He’s a good type and he’s a good lad to have about. He knows the game and I know all about him, he’s a great kicker and good at organisation."
Bullock, who was born in Warrington, played 31 games last year for the Tannadice Park club, including a Scottish Cup final appearance, but couldn’t resist the temptation of playing for Cooper again.
He said: "When the opportunity arose for me to work with Neale again I couldn’t turn it down as I had two fantastic years with him at Ross County. This move allows me to return to England where I started my career."
The players returned to training on Thursday with Cooper looking forward to meeting some of his squad for the first time.
"The first week we will do a lot of fitness work before the ball comes out," he said.
"Most of the week will be getting them into shape and just getting the ball out a few times."
Meanwhile, Gills have added an extra match to their pre-season itinerary, with a trip to Notts County on Saturday, July 16.
