Wolves' Aaron McCarey braced to battle for first-team spot

McCarey is sweating on his place for the visit of Notts County as Carl Ikeme is fit again after recovering from a broken bone in his left hand sustained in the 1-1 draw at Tranmere on New Year's Day.

The 22-year-old has conceded just two goals in five games since replacing Ikeme, keeping three clean sheets.

But he knows head coach Kenny Jackett could turn to the more experienced keeper given his stunning form before his injury.

"It's always going to be a challenge because Carl's a top keeper and Jon Flatt is pushing us as well," said McCarey.

"I've played five league games for Wolves now and I'm reasonably happy with my performances so hopefully I've given the manager a hard decision to make.

"Whatever decision he makes, I'll just take it on the chin and get on with it and I'll work twice as hard to get back in.

"It's a team game and we all have one aim.

"I'm confident in my own ability, but if I'm not in the team, I'm still happy to see us win.

"All I can do is train hard and impress the manager – which I think I've done – but we'll have to see on Saturday."

McCarey acknowledged the support from Ikeme and revealed the more senior keeper has been in touch before every game.

"He's been tremendous - he's been supporting me all the time," said the Ireland Under-21 international.

"Every home game he's come in and spoke to me beforehand and every away game he's rung me the night before to wish me good luck."

McCarey said their rivalry is keen but there is a healthy respect for each another.

"Myself and Carl are going to have a good, healthy rivalry," he said.

"We're good friends off the pitch and we'll be pushing each other to get the best out of each other.

"That's the great thing about the goalkeeping department: We're a tight group and myself and Carl are always talking about things.

"We're good pals and we've also got a great goalkeeping coach in Pat Mountain, who gets the best out of us.

"I've enjoyed every minute of it."