EXCELLENT FORM OF HAMER MEANS PRESSURE ON LOSSL TO RESPOND AND KEEP SENIOR PLACE

in the FA Cup – the replay win at Birmingham and the exit against Manchester United.

The 29-year-old Lossl played so well that back-up man Joel Coleman got only four appearances, two in the League Cup and two in the FA Cup.

But if David Wagner thought signing Ben Hamer on a free following his release by Leicester would heighten competition for the goalkeeping jersey, then it looks like he was absolutely right.

Town’s head coach said at the time: “I’ve spoken with Ben and he arrives here wanting to play Premier League football, which is great for us all.

“Jonas Lossl had a fantastic first season here and this further competition will bring even more out of everyone, which is ideal.”

While Lossl has just rejoined the Town squad following a family break in the aftermath of the World Cup, Hamer has staked his claim after making just 12 league appearances in four years with the Foxes.

His shot-stopping has been eye-catching to say the least, he is comfortable with the ball at his feet and his distribution is first class, whether going short or long.

Hamer’s handling has also been sound and he is far from shy at directing operations from the back.

Just as importantly, defenders appear to have confidence in him, which is hardly surprising considering the quality and strength in his play so far (he was a stand-out against Dynamo Berlin in Russelsburg last week and against Olympique Lyonnais at the John Smith’s).

So Hamer – who came to prominence at Charlton Athletic, where he was a League 1 title winner – has definitely taken his chance to impress.

That means Lossl will have to