KEEPER PRODIGY SET TO STAY

The 20-year-old has eventually agreed to the contract that was initially offered to him before Christmas and said: "I`m really pleased. It`s everything I want. It was never a question of not signing the contract. I hope to finalise it all in the next couple of days.

"I spoke to the manager yesterday, and I`ve told my agent that I want to sign it as soon as possible. I want to stay at the club and hopefully become number one. At the minute Danny (Coyne) is playing really well, so I know I have a wait on my hands."

The local lad has performed well in his limited opportunities this season, with four starts under his belt Croudson is obviously the keeper for the future.

He said: "Since last season when I replaced Lovey I`ve tried to keep myself in front of him and I feel I`ve done well.

"This time last year it could have been me getting released but then I got in against Wolves and did all right."

After that great display Croudson was given a two-year deal last summer and said: "Last year, I was hoping for a one-year contract to keep me going, but then I came in and the manager thought I did well.

"I think I`ve gone on from there and improved. I`m still inexperienced in terms of games but that`s something that comes as you keep playing.

"My kicking`s improved - a few years ago I couldn`t get it out of the box - and I think I read the game better now. I was always a good shot stopper but I can still learn and I want to improve on coming for crosses."

Mariners boss Alan Buckley (pictured) has said he will continue to have faith in his youngsters as the season draws to a close and Croudson will be given his chance to gain more experience.