Stags keepers to fight it out for No.1 jersey again

After years of only having one top line keeper and various loanees and back-ups, the Stags last season had genuine competition for the No.1 jersey after signing former Burnley legend Brian Jensen and fellow experienced stopper Scott Shearer, who has enjoyed a remarkable seven promotions.

Shearer started and ended the season with the shirt, though Jensen kept goal for a big chunk of it too after Shearer suffered an infected leg in the first week of the season after an inspect bite.

Jensen, 40, was already under contract for a further year and Stags this week took up their option to keep Shearer, 35, for the forthcoming season.

“We have taken up the option on Scott’s contract,” said boss Adam Murray.

“Scott came into the team and he was fantastic. He is a massive character and a big leader and big voice in our group.

“He has been part of the spine from the middle to the back end of the season.

“So we keep our competition between the two of them for the No.1 spot.

“They can fight it out again. They have a great partnership together and work really well together, so we are happy to keep them both here.

“They are both the right age as that position needs experience. It needs a good communicator there, so I am chuffed to keep Scott on board.”