Poleon needs match practice

IN CONTENTION . . . Dominic Poleon

DOMINIC Poleon will need time in the second team before he can add to Athletic’s goal threat, says Athletic manager John Sheridan.

The return of the quick-footed Jonathan Forte after illness boosts Sheridan’s options for tomorrow’s home clash with Swindon.

Five-goal Poleon has as many goals for Athletic this term on his own as the club’s other forwards put together. But Sheridan admits the problem affecting Poleon is still keeping him out.

“I don’t think Dominic is too far away,” said Sheridan. “He has missed a few weeks now so will possibly need one or two games before he features again.”

Aaron Amadi-Holloway should overcome an ankle problem to start tomorrow and it is a fight between Main and a host of other players to turn out alongside him.

“I like my strikers to play as strikers — and it is something I have to sort out,” Athletic’s manager added. “To score goals, you have to be in positions to score goals. Most of the time, it’s between the posts or in the penalty area.

“I find strikers doing unnecessary running round for the sake of it. Sometimes I would like them to stand still for a ball to come into the box, when they are there. They are all good players but a lot of the work isn’t where it should be.

“Every club I have been at, I have had a 20-odd goal a season striker. I don’t want my strikers tracking full-backs — I want them up front, causing havoc in central areas.”

Daniel Lafferty plays his final game for Athletic tomorrow before returning to Burnley.

The left-back has been in top form of late, but isn’t allowed to stay any longer uder league rules.

Sheridan said he will ponder a possible replacement - though believes he has options within the squad.