Livi boss sees Konovalov as successor to Stryjek

DAVID Martindale believes Ivan Konovalov is equipped to become Livingston’s first-choice goalkeeper next term as he prepares for the likely departure of Max Stryjek this summer. Russian Konovalov, who signed for the Lions in January, has made his first two starts for the club against Hibernian and St Johnstone while Pole Stryjek served a ban. Martindale always intended to give his recent recruit some game time before the end of this season and now he must decide who wears the gloves for tomorrow’s trip to St Mirren. ‘I said even before Max got suspended that Ivan was always going to come into the team,’ he stated. ‘I’ve still to make my mind up but he will potentially keep his place on Wednesday. ‘I do believe Max is probably not going to be here (after the summer). I trust Ivan.’