Clemence keeps tabs on Murray

After three years of injury problems, the 6ft 6in star has put his career back on track with a string of outstanding performances during Wolves' start to the season.

Even opposition managers have been singing his praises, culminating in Barnsley boss Andy Ritchie promoting an England call for the 25-year-old after the weekend clash at Oakwell.

The Wolves keeper was being fast-tracked for international duty as England Under 21 keeper before his injury nightmare began in 2003 - but now Steve McClaren's goalkeeping experts are again monitoring his progress.

In an exclusive interview today, Clemence reveals that "the chance is there" for Murray to muscle his way into senior contention - if his fitness holds up.

Outstanding

Clemence said: "When he was the England Under 21 keeper we considered him a player of huge potential, but he has had an horrendous time with injuries.

"Nevertheless, we have kept a close eye on him at the FA. We are aware that he is in outstanding form and one of the reasons why Wolves have started so promisingly.

"I think we've watched him three or four times already this season and we shall certainly continue to track him closely.

"We don't have scores of English-born goalkeepers at the top level so if he maintains his form and stays injury free, there's a chance for him. It's as simple as that.

"Robert Green got in the squad last season while playing in the Championship so that is all the proof you need that it is possible to make the jump to international level while playing outside the Premiership."

Murray, left heartbroken by aborted comebacks in the past, is anxious to keep a low profile.

By Martin Swain

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