EDDIE Howe believes on-loan goalkeeper Ryan Allsop’s Wembley heroics were a fitting reward for his exemplary attitude.

Allsop played a starring role as Lincoln City upset the odds to beat Shrewsbury in the final of the Checkatrade Trophy.

The 25-year-old, who is on loan to the Imps, pulled off a miraculous one-handed save to keep out Omar Beckles's header after 32 minutes, with Lincoln going on to win 1-0.

Howe told the Daily Echo: “I am really pleased for Rocky, he is one of football’s great professionals.

“He has had various loan experiences, has not been prepared to sit and wait and has had to go out and graft.

“He has had a few knocks along the way but it was a real highlight for him, a really special moment and I was delighted.”

Asked whether he had spoken to the stopper since the final, Howe replied: “We communicate through text mainly. I wished him good luck before and then congratulated him on the day.

“He has been a big part of our journey and behind the scenes what people don’t see is how well he has supported the goalkeepers when they have been playing.

“I love to see players getting their reward for showing good attitudes and that’s what Ryan has.”