Goalkeeper Mark Howard came through the youth system at Arsenal before going on-loan to Falkirk during the 2005-2006 season.

After playing 8 games for John Hughes side he returned to Arsenal but shortly afterwards he was released to join Cardiff City.

While at Ninian Park he was loaned out to fellow Welsh side Swansea City.

Mark joined St Mirren on June 28th, 2007 and made his debut eight months later in a Scottish Cup replay against Dundee United which he celebrated by keeping his goal intact and helping Saints into the next round.

After that he was in a head to head competition with Chris Smith for the "No 1" shirt as both players had spells in between the sticks.

Last season saw Mark hold down the starting berth for most of the season and while Chris Smith will spend most of this campaign on the injury list Mr Howard knows he faces stiff competition from new signing Paul Gallacher for the "No 1" shirt.