Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey admits he’s been pushed to the limit for the No 1 shirt by Carl Ikeme and Marcus Hahnemann.

Hahnemann, 37, was brought in to add Premier League experience and compete for the first choice spot, while Ikeme, 23, is fit and flying again.

With Matt Murray on his way back to full fitness as well, the competition has never been fiercer for the Molineux jersey.

Hennessey, 22, has had an impressive pre-season and boss Mick McCarthy has hinted he’s his first choice.

But the Wales international admits the increased competition has kept his standards sky-high.

He said: “Pre-season’s gone great for me personally and I’ve been pleased. I can’t wait for the season to start now to be honest.

“Competition for places always keeps you on your toes and Marcus and Carl have done well in pre-season.

“It makes sure you keep your standards high and trying your best.

“It’s up to the gaffer, but hopefully I’ll keep the number one shirt.

“The three of us have done well, but of course I hope I can keep the shirt.

“Marcus is good to have around, because he’s played in the Premier League and he knows what it’s like.

“He knows you can be quite busy as a goalkeeper in that league and is there with some good advice.

“It will be good to get out there in front of our home fans.”

The goalkeeper is relishing returning to Molineux tomorrow for the final friendly against Real Valladolid (3pm).

The busy Spanish outfit, who also play Stoke tonight after previously facing Leicester and Ipswich, finished mid-table in La Liga last season.

Hennessey is expecting a tough test seven days before the big kick-off against West Ham.

He said: “I love playing at Molineux and it’s the first time back there since the celebrations at the end of last season.

“Whoever comes to Molineux is going to give us a test and Real Valladolid have been over here for a while now, so they’ll be ready for us.

“Then it’s another trip away with Wales, before it all gets underway against West Ham and everyone in the dressing room can’t wait.”

Admission is £10 and £5 anywhere in the ground apart from the Steve Bull Stand, which is closed.