Boss throws down the gauntlet

Jonathan Forte . . . the forward may line up alongside Curtis Main against Swindon Town tonight.

OPPORTUNITY knocks for Athletic’s fringe strikers as manager John Sheridan copes without his two injured front men.

Loan players Aaron Amadi-Holloway nor Timmy Thiele won’t return to action for the club — if at all — until the back end of the campaign. Back in the mix before then - but not in time for tonight’s crucial home clash with Swindon - is Dominic Poleon. Out for 10 weeks, he needs more time to get up to speed after resuming training this week.

While admitting Amadi-Holloway will be missed, Sheridan has stressed the chance handed to others in the battle to improve the worst goals record in the league. Curtis Main and Jonathan Forte appear to be first in line to operate against out-of-form Robins tonight. Jake Cassidy too could get more of a look-in to impress after scoring for the reserves last week.

“People questioned bringing in someone who wasn’t in Wycombe’s team, but I knew what Aaron was about and he has shown that he’s a real handful,” Sheridan said. “He will be a big loss as he has that presence and gives you battling qualities in height and physique.

“He is hopeful and so is Timmy. They both have quite serious injuries, but neither needs surgery so will be in the physio’s hands. We will give them the best treatment we can. They will miss four weeks at least.

“Right now if I was a striker that hadn’t figured much, I would want to give the manager a problem and say I’m going to have to pick him. Jake Cassidy is a prime example. I don’t mind a player knocking on my door asking why they are not in the team. I prefer that. It’s about working hard, showing the right attitude and, when the chance comes, making sure you keep it.”

If Sheridan’s striker options worsen a recall clause in Rhys Murphy’s AFC Wimbledon deal could see him back at the club for the Walsall game: “While I’ve enough cover I wouldn’t bring him back to sit on the bench,” he confirmed.

Cameron Dummigan could come back into the side tonight after missing the Chesterfield game due to international duty with Northern Ireland’s under-21s.