"Probably the best goalie I've played with!" Matt Tootle delighted to link up with former Notts County and Chesterfield teammate Ross Fitzsimons at Boston United

Friends reunited as Pilgrims...
Matt Tootle in action for Notts County. Photo: GettyImagesMatt Tootle in action for Notts County. Photo: GettyImages
Matt Tootle in action for Notts County. Photo: GettyImages

Boston United summer signing Matt Tootle is delighted to link up with former Notts County and Chesterfield teammate Ross Fitzsimons once again - labelling him 'probably the best goalie I've played with'.

The defender and keeper played together at Meadow Lane before both joining the Spireites on loan last season before the campaign was cut short.

The two pals first linked up together at the start of the 2017-18 campaign as Fitzsimons moved to Meadow Lane, and Tootle has every confidence in his former teammate, who will challenge Peter Crook for a place between the sticks at the Jakemans Community Stadium.

"He's a good mate of mine and a very good goalie. Sometimes in football you don't get a proper chance, the rub of the green," Tootle said, referring to a turbulent 2018-19 season at Meadow Lane when Kevin Nolan, Harry Kewell and Neil Ardley all took charge of the team.

"I think being a goalie, as well, there's only one spot.

"He fell out of favour at Notts County because we had so many managers, and everyone's got a different opinion.

"But Ross is probably the best goalie I've played with in my career."

Ross Fitzsimons has been backed to succeed at Boston United by former teammate Tootle.  Photo: GettyImagesRoss Fitzsimons has been backed to succeed at Boston United by former teammate Tootle.  Photo: GettyImages
Ross Fitzsimons has been backed to succeed at Boston United by former teammate Tootle. Photo: GettyImages

Tootle believes that a fresh start can now bring the best out in Fitzsimons, who came through the Crystal palace youth system.

"As many players do, he slipped out," the full back added.

"He's not been in the picture so people forget about it, but Craig (Elliott - United manager) knows how good he is.

"He'll be a great signing for Boston, I'm sure."