Our glove rivalry is set to run

Aug 17 2008 By Gavin Berry

GOALIE guru Jim Stewart reckons Craig Gordon and Allan McGregor's battle for the Scotland No.1 jersey could run for years just like Andy Goram and Jim Leighton in the 90s.

This week's friendly against Northern Ireland will be the first international since regular first choice Gordon and challenger McGregor have taken their rivalry to new heights.

Stewart loves the fact we boast two top-class keepers but would hate to be in George Burley's position of having to pick an outright No.1 for the World Cup qualifiers.

Nobody knows them better than Stewart who was Gordon's mentor at Hearts and now works with McGregor as Rangers' goalkeeping coach.

Jim said: "In many ways it's like the days of Leighton and Goram because there was a huge rivalry but also tremendous respect between the two.

"When you consider how few English keepers are in the Premiership we're really lucky.

"I think Craig's performances have been so good he should continue playing and it's up to Allan to be patient.

"Craig is the No.1 but Allan's displays last season have given George something to think about.

"It's a great position to be in but what a difficult decision - I'm glad it's not down to me!

"There's not much between them and they both know a genuine battle is on.

"Craig is looking over his shoulder and Allan's performances last year have given Scotland a problem.

"The European games gave Allan another stage while Craig went to the Premiership and learned a bit about himself."

Stewart admits he takes satisfaction from his work with both keepers.

Hearts almost freed Gordon as a kid because of his size and Stewart said: "Craig was a skinny teenager but I'm glad Jim Jefferies gave him a deal.

"I saw Craig's potential and gradually he realised that.

"When Allan was younger I watched him with a view to the Scotland Under-21s and also saw potential.

"Since I joined Rangers last year we've worked on some things in training and he's taken his game to the next level."