Huddersfield Town

Colgan is currently working with Alex, Joe and Lloyd Allinson at Town’s training base in Portugal and has been pleased with Joe’s integration into the squad.

“He has settled in really well,” Nick said. “His goalkeeping speaks for itself; he has played nearly 500 games in his career and you don’t do that without being a top ‘keeper. He will provide some serious competition for the starting spot and Alex knows that. I have seen a spring and an enthusiasm in Alex though, and to be honest I wouldn’t have expected anything less from him. I have known him for three years and understand what type of character that he is. 

“He is up for the challenge of keeping the shirt and I think that competition is reflected throughout the squad; there is healthy competition for each position at the Club.” 

Nick has enjoyed his first few weeks in his new role as Head of Goalkeeping and has been impressed with the work ethic of the goalkeepers. In his role, Nick’s job is to oversee the development of all the Club’s professional goalkeepers including Development Team stoppers Sam Guthrie and Ed Wilczynski.

“The first few weeks of pre-season have been excellent,” said Nick. “It has been good to be away with the group and it has given me a lot of contact time with the goalkeepers. We have worked hard, whilst being sensible with the amount because of the hot conditions. We have trained during the cooler parts of the day and the lads have done really well.

“They are building a good dynamic and as a team are working well together. I am very pleased with the depth and quality of goalkeepers that we have at the Club.”

Murphy is set to feature in Saturday’s match against Segunda Divisao side SC Portimonense, whilst Development Squad member Allinson will get some game time when the team return to England next week. 

“Alex and Joe shared the duties in the AEL Limassol game, whilst Alex played the full 90 minutes against Doncaster on Tuesday,” explained Nick. “It is planned that Joe will play the majority of the match on Saturday and we are looking to get Lloyd some minutes under his belt as soon as we return to the country. 

“It has been Lloyd’s first time away with the First Team and it has been a really good experience for him. We wanted to make him feel a part of the group and show him what is expected of a First Team player. Alex and Joe understand how to handle themselves on pre-season tours, but for Lloyd this has been something new. He has done very well though, and he certainly doesn’t look out of place. 

“Technically his game is progressing and I think this time away will prepare him well for the season.”