Vaclav Hladky believes the time he spent guarding the goals at St Mirren Park prepared him to take the next step in his career.
The Czech keeper completed a move to Manchester side Salford City on Saturday, who ply their trade in the fourth tier of English football.
The move raised eyebrows from Saints fans, with many believing he was destined for an English Championship side after one and a half superb seasons between the sticks in Paisley.
But the 29-year-old is delighted to have made his 'big dream' come true as he prepares to make a name for himself south of the border.
He told salfordcity.co.uk: "I’m pretty excited, it’s a new side for me and I’m looking forward to it.
“I came 18 months ago to St Mirren and now after 18 months I can say it was a good stay for me.
"The Scottish league is very good, a good level for me and I feel after these 18 months I’m comfortable to go to another step and I’m looking forward to coming to Salford.
“English football has always been my big dream so my expectation is huge. This is a good start for me and I hope we will be successful together.
“I have a big target and Salford has big targets as well as to get a promotion every year, so I will do my best to give the club as best I can and I hope we will be a success!”
Hladky became a Saints legend when his penalty heroics helped keep his side in the Premiership in their play-off final showdown with Dundee United.
Salford City are co-owned by former Manchester United greats David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and brothers Gary and Phil Neville and have been promoted four times in the last six seasons.
They are currently managed by former Scotland international Graham Alexander.
