About....

A simple blog that gives my opinion from the world of football, and in particular - the overlooked world of goalkeeping! Writer for Goalkeeper Magazine (www.goalkeepermagazine.com).

All comments are welcomed, and are to be encouraged!! Enjoy!

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Friday 5 August 2011

Keeper Focus: Kevin Pilkington

KeeperTalk's latest interview comes from a goalkeeper that has gone through all the emotions as a goalkeeper. Kevin Pilkington made the breakthrough at Manchester United in 1994 when he was handed is first team début.Unfortunately for Kevin first team opportunities were hard to come by, mainly due to being in competition with arguably the greatest goalkeeper of all time in Peter Schmeichel. This forced KP to move in to the football league where he has gone to play over 350 games and has recently just signed for Luton Town FC at the age of 37. KeeperTalk was given the opportunity to speak to Kevin and ask him about his career as a whole.


How did last season go for you Kevin? 

I am always disappointed when I'm not playing regularly so it was a frustrating season for me. When I got a chance to play (Fa trophy and Mansfield loan) I really enjoyed it and thought I did myself justice.


What made you choose Luton as your next club?

I spent 3 months there on loan from Notts and really enjoyed my time and was made very welcome. Its a big club with good history so it was a fairly easy decision. 



Did you ever consider playing abroad?

I would love to play abroad! I nearly went to New Zealand a couple of years ago but unfortunately it fell through. I think it would be a great experience not just for me but my family as well.

Having had injury problems, what is your approach to training now?

The same as it has always been train as hard as possible. Always give a 100%. 

Has there been any individual who has been a huge inspiration to your career? 

My Dad. He was always there for me when I needed help or advice. But in footballing Circles Eric Harrison. Hard task master but a legend!

Who is your favourite current goalkeeper?

There's a few. Joe hart I really like. Great ability and temperament. Buffon has done it at the top level for years. Reina the best distribution! Stekelenburg can't believe he only went for 6.3 million euros!

Who is the goalkeeper you most dislike? 

None! Great respect for all keepers! 

Who is your all-time favourite goalkeeper?

Peter Schmeichel! The best!

Playing/training with the great Peter Schmeichel day in day out at United, what was he like? 

Awesome! Somedays he was unbeatable. Lucky enough to be on the bench when he made the save against rapid Vienna. Unbelievable save! 


What gloves are you wearing at the moment?

I am wearing ReactGK gloves. Very good as well!

What has been the biggest obstacle to your career so far?

The Schmeichels! Peter and Kasper!

Greatest moment of your career to date?

Making my debut for United against Palace and promotion winning season with Mansfield!

That is your ambition for the rest of your career?

Play as much as possible and enjoy playing. Also I want to be a GK coach and give some of my knowledge to some young gks! I love goalkeeping and want to be involved for years to come!


KeeperTalk would like to thank Kevin Pilkington for taking the time to volunteer for this interview, and wish him all the best for this season and the rest of his career. You can follow Kevin on twitter at @kpilks.