Stuart Taylor – Tough Being No. 2

Stuart Taylor says being the Villa understudy has proved more difficult than when he was second in line to David Seaman at Arsenal.

Taylor, who is currently in the team due to a knee injury to Denmark international Thomas Sorensen said:

‘It was different for me when I was at Arsenal because David Seaman used to pick up quite a few knocks. So I got quite a few games, but Thomas Sorensen is younger and fitter than what David Seaman was at that time. He doesn’t get anywhere near as many injuries, so you end up sitting around. It is hard, but that is something you have to deal with. You just have to go out there and give it your best and hope it all goes well.’

The 26-year-old shot stopper added: ‘Every number two goalkeeper in the Premier League is a good goalkeeper. They all know they have the ability to go out and play well. But because you are not league match sharp you just have to hope that you are on the ball and that you have a bit of luck.’

‘I’ve waited a long time for a run in the side. You soon get forgotten in football so it’s been nice to play a few games. I had a couple of games this season before Thomas got injured. I think he is going to be out for a while so I’ll get to play a few games. Thomas is the number one but I want to play to the best of my ability and I’m just thinking of doing well for the team and do a job as best as I can. The aim is to give a manager a decision when Thomas is fit. At the moment I’m just filling in and doing a job but I want to play to the best of my ability. If I end up giving the manager a problem, it will be nice.’

Meanwhile Martin O’Neill has challenged Taylor to take his chance and keep his place in the starting line up saying:

‘Stuart has got an opportunity and it’s really up to him to take it. It’s important for Stuart to accept the fact he is in the side and his aim would be to make the position his own and not stay at number two for the rest of his life. What Stuart wants to do is play so well that it would be exceptionally difficult for him to be left out of the team. He has got this opportunity.’