Size isn't everything -- just ask Southend United goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan who is determined to provide proof after signing a new one-year deal with the Shrimpers.
The 26-year-old shot-stopper is expected to start Saturday's League Two curtain-raiser at Roots Hall against Cheltenham Town among the substitutes following the arrival of fellow custodian Bart Griemink.
But 5ft 11ins-tall Flahavan is confident of reclaiming the number one slot -- despite being four inches shorter than his new team-mate.
"In all walks of life bigger isn't necessarily better," said the former Southampton keeper.
"Bart may have a few inches on me, but that doesn't matter.
"Managers sometimes feel more re-assured when they've got a taller goalkeeper between the sticks, but it does get on my nerves a bit when people mention my height.
"A lot of keepers are tall, but it's not something that bothers me.
"I'm confident in my ability, which I believe is second to none, and I want to be number one here again."
Flahavan, who originally joined Blues from Woking in October 2000, added he was delighted to have secured his Seasiders future and had also turned down offers from two other clubs -- believed to be Scottish Premier Division Livingston and League Two rivals Boston United.
Published Thursday August 5, 2004
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