Troy Perkins says he is looking to take back the gloves for MLS expansion franchise Portland Timbers.
The 29-year old has missed the first four matches of the Timbers' season due to injury, with young New Zealander Jake Gleeson covering for both he and fellow crock Adin Brown.
Perkins admits that he is happy to see 20-year old Gleeson do well but has made it clear of his intentions to grab the number one shirt back.
"The kid's done well. I love coming every day and seeing him grow," Perkins told The Oregonian. "But still, I want to get back, fight for it and prove I can do the job.
"I've been itching like you wouldn't believe (to get back from the knee injury). They go off and play and I'm told I've got to do more fitness. So it's tough to swallow."
The Timbers are preparing for their first home match - this Friday against Chicago Fire - so Gleeson is not about to give up his spot easily although he is aware that Perkins will be back in action sooner rather than later.
"It's definitely a difficult situation for me. I'd love to play in the first home-opener and I would be gutted if I didn't make that starting spot," Gleeson said. "You can't say you're OK with it. You do understand, but it would be devastating.
"It comes down to how much work I want to put in and how much I want to start in that home game," he added. "I think if it is given to Troy, then it's through my own fault of not trying hard enough and not because the coaches have taken it away from me."
