GOALIE Danny Alcock didn't want to make his debut at the expense of broken leg victim Jon Kennedy.

But now the 20-year-old has made his bow between the sticks, he doesn't want to let his spot go.

The freak accident to regular keeper Kennedy happened in training on Sunday.

"I just went to kick a ball, my other leg went and I ended up with all the weight on my left leg. It twisted and I fell and I just heard the snap - it was horrible.

"It was hurting so much that I ended up laughing and all the lads thought I was taking the micky. I knew it was bad though and I am gutted.

"It is the worst injury I have had and three months out - until January - just seems ages away."

He was set for an operation today at Wrightington Hospital in Wigan.

"They want to pin in and put a plate in it," said the shot-stopper. "That was a better diagnosis than at first when they said I could be in pot for six weeks.

"Now it should be just two weeks and I can begin rehabilitation and start building it up and strengthening it as quickly as possible.

"I am still looking at January for a return and I've added up I will miss 16 games - it seems such a lot."

Former Stoke and Barnsley keeper Alcock, who had impressed in pre-season for the Reds, got his chance against Hereford on Monday in front of the television cameras.

"There nothing like being under pressure, making my debut in a game live on television!" said the youngster.

"But I am glad to make my debut - and now glad to get it out of the way.

"There were a few butterflies in the afternoon, I felt a bit nervous, but I felt okay by the time of the match.

"My dad and his friend came to the match and my mum and family were tuning in at home."

And he was called into action straight away impressing with a wonder save from a David Brown header.

"It was good to get a confidence boost early on and it was good to be involved and get three points.

"When you are on the bench it is frustrating but I am disappointed for Jon.

"But for me I have got to take my chance and hopefully get a good run in the team."

Manager John Colleman said: "It is unlucky for Jon but I would never have a problem picking Danny.

"He swept up well and was steady. He pulled off a good save at the start which gave him a confidence boost although he spooned one at the end which was a nervous moment!"