Turley has missed several pre-season games through illness

Oxford United goalkeeper Billy Turley says he will fight to keep his place this season in the wake of competition from new signing Ryan Clarke.

The former Northwich keeper Clarke joined the U's on a three-year deal in May, but Turley, 36, says he still has the desire to stay in the first team.

"I'm my biggest critic, I don't need any motivation," he said.

"I have worked hard over the summer, I'm part of this club and want to stay part of it."

The pair are set to provide each other with stiff competition for a first-team place this year, but Turley says it will not be at the expense of their friendship or team spirit.

Whenever I have been out of the team I have never wished ill on the person keeping you out Oxford keeper Billy Turley

"I've been in the game for 15 years and never had a problem with a goalkeeper," he said.

"There is only one spot up for grabs, but whenever I have been out of the team I have never wished ill on the person keeping you out.

"Ryan will push me and I will push Ryan, I think that can only benefit Oxford."

Turley is the only current Oxford player who was at the club since their relegation from the Football League in 2006, and has only missed 27 league games in his four years at the Kassam Stadium.

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