After five years of service and 140 appearances, the departure of Matt Ingram has left a void in the Wycombe Wanderers’ goal.

It is a void that Alex Lynch is relishing the opportunity of filling and a challenge the 20-year-old is looking forward to rising to.

An apprenticeship of 18 months as backup keeper has helped prepare Lynch and he hopes to show he has the ability to take over from fan favourite Ingram.

“I am really looking forward to it. I have been here for a year and a bit now and have been working hard to get fitter and stronger,” he said.

“My chance has come now and it is my job to try and keep myself in the team every week. There is nothing better than playing football and hopefully I will get a chance to play in a few games.”

Lynch’s first taste of being out and out number one at Adams Park came in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat against Leyton Orient.

Having previously featured in the occasional game, including last season’s play-off final at Wembley, Lynch will have to get accustomed to playing every week.

The Welshman does not see an increased workload being an issue and feels sticking to the basics will allow him to prosper.

“I have just got to keep playing week in week out. I need to be consistent, play safe and do the right things when I train and play,” he explained.

“The manager just said to do what I have done in the games I have played so far, to be consistent and to come for crosses.”

Ingram was also in attendance for the Orient match on Saturday, less than 24 hours after his move was confirmed, and received a warm reception from the Adams Park crowd.

Bucks Free Press:

Ingram talks to fans during Saturday's defeat against Orient

His move leaves Gareth Ainsworth with just two recognised goalkeepers in his squad including Barry Richardson.

The 46-year-old, who also works as a coach at the club, has not made an appearance since 2005 and it is difficult to see how he could step up at short notice should Lynch be unavailable.

Ainsworth, who was quick to wish Matt Ingram well, therefore confirmed that the Blues will consider bringing in another keeper during the January window.

He is, however, willing to give Lynch a chance as number one and is hopeful that the youngster will cope well with the added responsibility.

“Matty is a great goalkeeper and we have to be proud that he is moving on. I can’t see him not playing for too long and he will play at QPR,” Ainsworth said after Saturday’s match.

“It is fantastic for Alex Lynch. I thought he kicked well today, didn’t make any mistakes and didn’t have any chance with the goals.

“He has an opportunity to stake a claim for the number one shirt. He is a young lad who has played some big games and I hope he can become consistent in the league games and make a claim to be the regular stopper.”