Scott Carson says he feared his Premier League days were over after he was finally handed his Manchester City debut tonight at Newcastle.
Carson, 35, has been the third-choice goalkeeper for the last two years on loan from Derby, and was a surprise name in the City starting lineup in the first game since the Blues were crowned Premier League champions.
Not only was Carson making his first senior appearance for two years, it was his first Premier League outing in 10 years since his days at West Brom.
Pep Guardiola has been full of praise for the role Carson plays within the City squad, while the former England international has himself spoken about his hopes of playing for the team he has been a big part of around the CFA in the last two seasons.
Speaking to Sky Sports before the Newcastle game, Carson said he was close to making his debut last season on the final day.
"I'm over the moon to get a chance to play," he said.
"There was a chance I could have played last season but Eddy was going for the Golden Glove. I think Norwich scored and it went to VAR and I was getting my shinpads on!
"Xavi the goalkeeping coach told me yesterday [he was playing], I thought my Premier League days were over but I've never given up and got my chance tonight."
Carson admits the call-up came as a surprise, but it's a reward for a lot of hard work in the last two years.
"I was surprised but since I've been here, I've worked as hard as I can, be there if needed," he continued.
"Thankfully the manager's seen that and given me a game tonight.
"There always is [nerves], every game you play. That's good, even with the experience it's good to be a bit nervous."
