Striker light

POTENTIAL TARGET? . . . Francois Zoko in action for Stevenage last season.

GOALS win games — and Athletic didn’t score enough of them at home last season.

Manager Lee Johnson this week tied up two new signings in defender Brian Wilson and midfield man Mike Jones, adding to left-back Joseph Mills to make it three summer captures.

Johnson’s sights are now bound to be further upfield before the big kick-off on August 9.

Athletic’s terrific late-season form — aided by some very strong defensive performances — won’t have kidded the boss when it comes to firepower. Only 23 goals were scored in home games - the third-worst record in the division. Away from home Athletic were more potent, scoring 27 times.

With young tyros aplenty among his existing forward options, experience is being sought by Johnson.

Here, we look at some available striker options who could potentially aid Athletic’s quest for goals next term . . .

WILL HOSKINS — Two knee operations have severely hindered the career of the 27 year old, released by Brighton at the end of the season. The former Rotherham, Watford and Bristol Rovers forward spent time out on loan at Sheffield United, where he scored twice.

MARCUS TUDGAY — Now 31, the former Derby striker who made his name at Sheffield Wednesday finds himself without a club following his release by Nottingham Forest. Tudgay played only 10 times last season but scored twice. He will be looking for a more regular place - but could be unwilling to drop a league and salary.

SYLVAIN EBANKS-BLAKE — The stocky front man most recently played for Ipswich in the Championship, but is now a free agent 28. Injuries haven’t helped him: the former Manchester United prospect played only 10 times last sesaon. Johnson spoke to him last season when he wanted to remain in the Championship. Quite a coup if Oldham could nab him.

FRANCOIS ZOKO — A player responsible for causing Athletic plenty of pain in the past for Carlisle, the Ivorian forward is capable of playing in a number of different roles across the front line.

Pace and trickery are allied to inconsistency, but the 31-year-old is a realistic target.

BILLY PAYNTER — Released by Doncaster at the end of the season and on the look-out for his 10th professional club. Prolific at League One level for Swindon four years ago, he is still only 29 and will be keen for prolonged action. A key member of the Dons side that won promotion from League One two years ago. He would add height and plenty of experience.