Poleon in line to take lead role

Dominic Poleon: chance to step up

DOMINIC Poleon has been challenged to stake his claim for a regular place in Athletic’s starting line-up.

Jabo Ibehre’s return to Colchester has opened up a striking spot at Fleetwood tomorrow and manager Lee Johnson has hinted that Poleon could step in.

Out of favour and with only two goals in 26 appearances since joining the club, Poleon’s last start came on the wing in the disastrous 7-0 loss at MK Dons. But he could play up front with Jonathan Forte at Highbury Stadium, as Athletic seek their first league victory of the year.

“He is a young talent with his physical attributes and he knows he needs to improve technically. We are working with him all the time on that,” said Johnson.

“He is a real threat. His hold-up play may not be the best, but if you were playing against him he always puts you under pressure and is a constant threat. One ball and he can be dynamic, setting up a goal or winning a penalty or scoring.

“He’s a good, young player. The problem is he has almost come in with too big a reputation given his age and league experience. It is a good chance for him to come to the fore tomorrow.”

Athletic head to the coast struggling for bodies. Left-back Joseph Mills serves the first of his three-game ban while Adam Lockwood and Rhys Turner are on the injured list.

Johnson added: “We are down in numbers and may have to go in with only two or three professionals on the bench.

“It will be a tight one and it emphasises the need for a few more bodies to come in.”