You would do well to find a busier man at Meadow Lane than Notts County goalkeeping coach, goalkeeper and kit man Kevin Pilkington.
On Saturday, Pilkington combined all three of his roles, after being informed that he would be starting in the Magpies’ Deepdale encounter with Preston North End.
Number one stopper Bartosz Bialkowski had taken ill and, with Fabian Spiess sidelined with a hand injury, the 39-year-old was called upon just an hour-and-a-half before kick-off.
Wearing Bialkowski’s gloves, Pilkington delivered a performance that the Pole would have been proud of himself and scooped the Man of the Match award following a string of top saves.
Although Notts were beaten 2-0, the former Manchester United custodian was pleased to make his 150th start for the club.
“It’s one of them really where there’s no pressure on you really to go out and perform, but I enjoyed it and I still enjoy training and when I get to go in the goals,” he said.
“I’d have liked Bart to be out there and Fabs to be on the bench but he’s out injured.
“I like keeping fit and I enjoy my job so you’ve got to practice what you preach!”
Pilkington dedicated his performance to manager Shaun Derry and assistant boss Greg Abbott, having enjoyed all of his roles since their arrival in November.
“Since the gaffer and Greg have been here, I’ve loved every single minute of it because they’re fantastic to work for,” he continued.
“The enthusiasm, the desire, determination and organisation is spot on and I love it.
“It’s a pleasure to work with them and it’s for them as well because I want them to do well.
“I want myself to do well as well, I want to improve every single day in whatever I’m doing, whether it be doing the kit, coaching or playing.”
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