Precious game time is Kettings' big aim

NO HYDE-ING PLACE . . . Chris Kettings

CHRIS Kettings has described how a loan spell at Hyde FC prepared him for the rigours of life at the game's sharp end.

Athletic's number two had another tough baptism last week against Carlisle, conceding five times without too much help from a shaky defence stationed in front of him.

But the 23-year-old won't shy away if and when called upon again, given the value he puts on every minute of first-team action - no matter how tough the situation.

"I was told about the chance to go there (to Hyde) on loan from Blackpool and I thought, do I really want to take it, at a club that's shipping three or four goals every week? But as a goalkeeper, game-time really is invaluable," said Kettings, who moved south to the Wigan area from Glasgow when aged three.

"You can go to a side that is top of the league, sit behind a strong back four and not have anything to do.

"But is doing that and totting up clean sheets really assisting a lot in your development?

"I really think it was the bets move I could have made at that time. I knew what I was getting into and it was character-building as much as anything."

Joining in late January, Kettings was number one as Hyde ended the 2013-14 season in the Conference with an all-time low of 10 points, picking up one win in 46 games.

Looking back, his career as a goalkeeper only really came about by accident.

"I tried out in every position, as kids do at that age, then one week I went in goal, did quite well and ended up staying," he said.

"I was always a little chubby as a kid so it suited me to play there.

"At that time, Peter Schmeichel was in goal at Manchester United and for any kid in goal, he was the one you would look up to and try to emulate."

A two-month spell in Manchester City's academy was followed by a move to Blackpool and as Kettings progressed through the ranks to earn a professional deal, he got on the bench for one outing against Aston Villa in February, 2011 - an experience he says was "almost like a dream".

"It was very special," Kettings said. "Ask any Blackpool fan and they will describe it as a golden era for the club and one that possibly won't be replicated again.

"Ian Holloway was there and he was a great manager. I don't think the group of players was necessarily the most talented, but there was a real camaraderie in the squad and so many leaders.

"Matt Gilkes, Ian Evatt, Charlie Adam - all were great characters."

Signed by Crystal Palace two years ago as back-up to Julian Speroni and Wayne Hennessey, Athletic manager Stephen Robinson signed Kettings as cover for Connor Ripley and he says he will be ready when next asked to step out for the first team.

"I will support Connor and the team and then if and when the opportunity arises, I will be ready to take it," added Kettings.

"It's a massive waiting game. You don't want to think of a goalkeeper getting injured, but a huge part of the job is being strong mentally and to work hard to make sure you area ready if and when called on."