The Dundee number one shirt is Jack Hamilton’s – literally and figuratively.
But Elliott Parish is ready for the battle of the gloves at Dens Park this season.
The Englishman was given a chance at Peterhead last night and didn’t let the team down, however former Hearts keeper, Hamilton, is expected to be back in goal when the Premiership campaign begins against St Mirren next weekend.
“It looks as if I’m going to struggle to get as much game time as I would want right now but when I do get my chance I have to go and prove myself again,” said Parish.
“I finished last year with the shirt and you never want to lose it.
“I struggled with injuries after Christmas but my form picked up again towards the end of the season.
“It’s about taking on board what I learned from last season and kicking on.”
Starting last season as back-up and ending it in the team gives Parish encouragement for 2017/18.
“I took my chance when Scott (Bain) came out of the side,” he said. “And hopefully I can do that this year.
“It’s a long season in Scotland and you need everyone firing on all cylinders – even if it’s just to push each other along.
“I’ve worked hard on my fitness over the summer and I feel like I’ve come back really strong.
“I’m looking to take the fight to Jack. Hopefully it will push him on but at the end of the day I want that jersey.”
Hamilton and Parish are direct rivals but their relationship is a good one, said the former Colchester United man.
“It is a bizarre one,” said Parish of the bond keepers have. “It’s unique.
“You look at him and think ‘I really want that shirt’ but you’re in the same boat.
“You have respect for each other and I get on very well with Jack.”
And Parish is happy with the way manager Neil McCann has dealt with the pair of them.
“It was evident that we had to bring someone in. There was no conversation needed for that.
“He’s been very open and honest and speaks to us almost every day.”
