Scunthorpe United have 'every confidence' in Sam Slocombe, according to manager Alan Knill, as the rookie keeper closes in on a first league start for the club.

With Sam Johnstone looking like losing his battle to be fit for tomorrow's tough-looking League One test at MK Dons, the 23-year-old is on standby to answer what has quickly become a goalkeeping crisis at Glanford Park.

Since joining the Iron from non-league side Bottesford Town in August 2008, Slocombe has made just four league appearances – all of which have been as a substitute.

But after waiting patiently when Knill reacted to an injury to first-choice stopper Josh Lillis by bringing in Johnstone six weeks ago, he is now on the verge of getting a chance with his hometown club.

And his manager is sure he won't let anyone down should he be needed at stadium:mk.

"Sam was outstanding during the last reserve game (where he saved a penalty against Hull City), as he has been all season," said Knill, who is waiting on doctor's advice to determine whether Johnstone can play with a dislocated finger suffered at the beginning of the week.

"There's no point in having a number two if you're not going to play him.

"We just felt with the first part when Josh got injured it was just a little early for him.

"Working with Sam Johnstone has shown him what he is up against. He's had to push himself harder and he has done.

"His performances in training and reserve games have been outstanding.

"We've every confidence if we have to play him."