HEREFORD United captain Tony James is delighted the services of Scottish international goalkeeper Jonathan Gould have been secured for another month - only he wants him to stay much longer than that.

James insists the Bulls' defence have forged a good understanding with twice-capped Gould, who has been between the sticks for each of United's opening six games in the Nationwide Conference since joining on a month's loan from Preston North End.

The former Celtic, Coventry City and Bradford City goalie has made a big impression with supporters since pulling on United's No.1 jersey.

Club skipper James insists the players love having 36-year-old Gould around too and wishes his move to Edgar Street could become permanent.

James said: "It's great that Jonathan is still with us. He's a terrific goalkeeper and somebody of his experience is only going to benefit us in the long run. He's a good talker and the defence has struck a good relationship

with him which is important. He's already produced a lot of good saves this season and shown to supporters what he can do.

"He's very popular with the lads in training and a lot of fun to be with.

Sometimes it can be difficult for older people to join in with the younger ones but that's not the case with him. He's just a young kid himself.

"It would be a good thing if he signed permanently, but whether or not we can afford him, I don't know. We'd like to have him."

James, 25, believes it is vital Gould and the rest of his defensive colleagues are on top form to halt third-placed Gravesend and Northfleet today.

The Kent club are currently enjoying a phenomenal run of results having gone 18 games without defeat in the Conference.

Ironically, their last reverse came at the hands of United at Stonebridge Road on February 14, losing 5-2 last season.