STFC: ANDY KING is confident that Craig Farr will banish the doubts that have so far prevented him from signing a professional contract.

The Town boss met with the young goalkeeper yesterday to hear why the Newbury-born stopper had failed to sign the professional contract offered to him.

King admitted he was surprised to hear the youngster's explanation but commended his honesty.

He said: "It seems that during the summer it suddenly dawned on the lad that he was going to be our second keeper and that Bart Griemink was the only thing between him and a place in the first team.

"He was anxious not to be suddenly thrown into the side and let his team mates down.

"For someone I have always thought had lots of outer confidence, he clearly felt he didn't have the inner confidence."

King has applauded the 17-year-old for speaking out now but feels the keeper will grow in stature.

He said: "I believe in Craig Farr. I think he is one of the best young goalkeepers around.

"He would not have been offered a pro-deal and Richard McKinney would not have been released if I did not think he could make it."

Farr will work with Bart Griemink during pre-season and be handed the chance to play in first team games.

But if it proves too much at this stage of his career, which King doubts, the manager is grateful Farr's honesty has allowed him plenty of time to bring in another keeper should it become necessary.

He said: "I wouldn't have wanted this conversation on the eve of the Barnsley game."