CONCORD Rangers defender Jack Lampe says he is happy to play in goal tomorrow if it helps the team – although he has his fingers crossed a replacement stopper is signed before the match!

The 22-year-old centre-back has appeared in goal twice in the last three games for the Beachboys, after injuries to the club’s only shot-stopper Jamie Butler left Danny Cowley’s men without a reserve keeper.

Lampe has impressed against Wealdstone in wins in the league and FA Cup, conceding only once in that time – more than 90 minutes of football.

And he said it came as a complete shock when the manager asked him if he could step up to the mark.

“I didn’t expect it at all,” said Lampe. “Jamie Butler is a great goalkeeper but when he went off we had to get someone in goal.”

Lampe said he had caught the eye the day before the Wealdstone FA Cup replay in training, when he had made a couple of saves off the goal-line. He had also impressed when he made his debut in goal against the same opposition a fortnight earlier.

“I am a centre-half,” he laughed. “But we have a small squad here so I am happy to fill in when I am needed. The club haven’t got a second goalkeeper so if Danny thinks I am the best person for the job I will give it a go.”

Lampe says he was pleasantly surprised at how well he has done and says adrenaline has got him through the two games against Wealdstone.

“It was instinct really”, said Lampe, who made a tremendous double save to preserve a clean sheet on Tuesday. “I have never played in goal before but I suppose I can say I have now – although I am a better centre-back!”

Manager Danny Cowley told the Echo yesterday Lampe might be called upon to play in goal against Basingstoke Town tomorrow.

Lampe has been out of the side in recent weeks, having been recovering from a broken jaw sustained against Ebbsfleet United in the second match of term.

And the form of Steve King and Danny Glozier has meant his spell on the sidelines has been extended, although he says he is ready to come back into the team.

“I was playing well before the injury,” said the centre-back. “I hope to get back soon but Danny Cowley knows what he is doing.

“It is like a second family at Concord. We are a close group and we love to help each other. Although I hope we have loaned a keeper by tomorrow!”