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Bunn fight to be Sheffield United's first choice
SHEFFIELD United manager Kevin Blackwell has revealed that Carl Ikeme, the goalkeeper he captured on loan from Wolves yesterday, is in contention for a starting role at Bristol City tomorrow.
Ikeme, who joined fellow new recuit Toni Kallio at Bramall Lane before the 5pm deadline for emergency signings, is expected to contest the number one jersey with Mark Bunn in Ian Bennett's absence.
Blackwell swooped for the 23-year-old when doctors confirmed that Bennett, who injured his thumb during the South Yorkshire derby against Barnsley, could spend the next three weeks on the sidelines.
"I want a number one because I haven't got one at the moment," Blackwell said.
"Carl has got presence. He's over six foot tall and he likes to come for crosses.
"He's still got a lot to learn and he's very enthusiastic.
"But it's good to see that he's got the right attitude."
Bunn admitted he would be disappointed to lose his place after saving a penalty during last weekend's victory over Peterborough.
Despite taking the number of temporary contracts on United's roster to eight - two more than regulations permit in a matchday squad - Blackwell was forced to act when it became clear Bennett would not feature at Ashton Gate.
Ikeme travelled north after completing a brief spell at Charlton and Blackwell added: "He's played games for a good team and that was obviously an attraction.
"I didn't want to bring in someone who hasn't played for a while. Carl has featured at some big stadiums recently and that should be of benefit.
"He's not going to be raw."
Like Ikeme, Kallio will remain with United until the end of December after being granted permission to leave Fulham.
Should the left-back or centre-half prove a success then the Finn's arrival could pave the way for Matthew Kilgallon's departure during the January transfer window.
Newcastle lead the chase for Kilgallon whose present deal expires at the end of the season.
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Weather for Sheffield
Friday 10 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: -6 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: -2 C to -1 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South west
