RAYLEIGH goalkeeper Dean Gerken is setting his sights on first-team football after joining Ipswich Town.

The 28-year-old former FitzWimarc School pupil has penned a two-year deal at Portman Road after being released by Bristol City at the end of last season.

And Gerken has now vowed to challenge Scott Loach for a place in Ipswich’s team.

“I’ve come to play games, but if I’m not in the team I’ll be supporting the boys and pushing Loachy all the way for his place,” said Gerken, who was born in Rochford.

“I needed a new challenge after coming to the end of my contract at Bristol City, regardless of whether they offered me a new one.

“I didn’t play as many games as I wanted.

“I didn’t go there to be a number two keeper and I’ve never worked with anyone who wanted to be a number two keeper.”

Gerken began his career as a youth-teamer at Southend United before joining Colchester United in 2002 and spending seven years at the club.

But he is now delighted to be with the Tractor Boys.

“As soon as I knew Ipswich wanted to have a look at me, my mind was made up that I wanted to come here,” said Gerken.

“It’s a massive club and the fans are fantastic.

“It’s a daunting place to come for away teams and obviously everyone knows what a good manager Mick McCarthy is.

“I knew that if I could get myself in the best possible shape when I came here on trial, I could give a good account of myself and I'm delighted it’s worked out.

“I had other options, but my mind was made up and I’m really looking forward to working here.”