IT'S not often you can make a connection between Tony Blair and Jamie Speare but the Accrington Stanley shot-stopper felt like him on Saturday.
The goalkeeper, a regular over the last four seasons at Stanley before he was sent off in the opening Conference game against Aldershot, was recalled to the starting line-up for the victory over Barnet on Saturday.
And he admitted: "I felt like the prime minister after the game having to shake everybodies hands - all the fans were coming up to me afterwards. It was great and it is nice to be wanted as I would rather the fans did that than throw things at me as I leave the pitch!"
Speare is hoping for more of the same and is keenly waiting to see if his name is on the team-sheet tomorrow for the FA Cup clash with Bournemouth - or if Jon Kennedy, who has replaced him in the games since Aldershot, will get the nod.
"Both me and Jon know the situation, we both know the script and we talk about it and train together. We know we both want that one place and I have been given the opportunity and want to take it.
"Perhaps in the last few seasons I have become a bit complacent as I haven't had anyone seriously challenging me. But I know with Jon at the club there will be no room for complacency."
Speare admitted he was relieved to see his name back in the number one slot.
"I was made-up when I knew I was playing. I am only happy when I am in the team. I said I wanted to be selfish and perform well whatever the result on Saturday - from now on I want the team to do well."
And he will be on cloud nine if his name is there tomorrow.
"I have got my fingers-crossed I start. We are one game away from perhaps playing one of the biggest teams in the world like Manchester United or Arsenal. It is a huge game for us."
He knows more about the big two than the Cherries as he admits his knowedge of Bournemouth is limited.
"It is seven hours away!" he said. "No, I know if I play it will be one of the biggest stages I have played on and I know they got a good result last Saturday and have a good home record.
"They are up near the play-offs in Division Two and they are one of the better footballing sides in the league."
