Ma-Kalambay vows to keep his hands on keeper's shirt

Published on Monday 5 January 2009 08:48

YVES MA-KALAMBAY vowed to do everything possible to hold on to the Hibernian goalkeeper's jersey after keeping a clean sheet in the Edinburgh derby in the wake of extra competition.

The Belgian helped Hibs claim a 0-0 draw against Hearts a day after former Dundee United keeper Grzegorz Szamotulski joined the club.

The Pole was not registered in time to appear at Tynecastle and Ma-Kalambay performed well in a fixture that has previously caused him problems.

The 22-year-old dominated his penalty area, was confident in his handling and made several decent saves, the best coming when he pushed wide Laryea Kingston's powerful effort from 18 yards.

He also had a considerable slice of luck – Christian Nade struck the woodwork twice before Hearts sub Gary Glen fired a dipping 30-yard strike off the top of the bar.

But he justifiably expects to retain the gloves for next week's Homecoming Scottish Cup fourth-round derby at Easter Road, when Szamotulski will be available.

"First of all, I'll welcome the guy to the club," Ma-Kalambay said.

"It doesn't put any extra pressure on me. I'll just keep doing what I do. Hopefully it's going to be healthy competition and a challenge. I'm all about challenges.

"I'm going to help him to be comfortable but we're going to fight for the same position and I'm going to do everything I can to keep my number 50 jersey.

"I'm not scared about my position after one week. People have been saying a lot of stuff because we have signed another goalkeeper.

"But I'm playing at the moment and I'm looking at Hearts next week. If I don't get injured I'm looking to remain in goal, but I'm not the manager."