Fulham - Stockdale Still Secondary

Our opening two Premier League fixtures have provided a perfect opportunity for young Goalkeeper David Stockdale to show us and the gaffer quite what he's made of.

I'm sure we're all singing from the same hymn sheet when we suggest that he has in fact been pivotal in the two points that we've collected so far.

Even with that in mind, however, it seems new manager Mark Hughes isn't willing to risk too much by giving the 24 year-old a starting place.

Following his fine performance on Sunday, saving a penalty and making some fabulous stops in the process, Hughes had this to say about the ex-Darlington shot-stopper.

'He's been outstanding and, had this game gone to 3-1, it would have been United's.

'We're pleased with what he's producing at the moment but it's always difficult for young keepers. They get by initially on adrenalin and enthusiasm, but can they keep it up over time?

'It's a long season and you've got to be careful with them.'

Stockdale himself though, remained pleased with his performance.

'That's another showing I can go to the manager with and say: 'There you go. That's what I can do,' said the number 12.

'I was just trying to get the lads out of the deep muck.

'It's hard enough trying to dislodge Mark Schwarzer at the best of times but I'll just take it day by day now and see what happens.'

So, would you guys rather David was given the chance, or would you like someone with greyer hair and a few war stories to tell?

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.