Whatever Charlie can do . . .

CHARLIE Adam provided the inspiration needed for one of Athletic’s best goals of the season.

The Stoke midfield man’s audacious 66-yard hit in a recent Premier League game against Chelsea persuaded Dominic Poleon to try his luck from long range against Sheffield United.

“I watched Charlie Adam the other week and just thought: you know what — just give it a go,” Poleon said. “Luckily, it went in.”

There was certainly more than pure luck involved in Poleon’s superb 35-yard strike, though. And after a season with Athletic that has been tough going, the September signing hopes the praise afforded to him by boss Dean Holden is being rewarded.

“I have had a few chances to score and sometimes, you make your own luck,” Poleon said. “When you are not scoring, it can play on your mind. You have to stay positive and believe in your ability.

“That is showing more now. Any type of form a player picks up will give confidence, but it is about not getting carried away, keeping your feet on the ground and taking it step by step.”

As for his manager, who he rushed over to after scoring both goals against the Blades, Poleon has been impressed by his impact since taking over from Lee Johnson.

“Since Dean has been in charge, he has shown confidence in me and has backed me,” he said.

“With his aura around the place, the boys have taken to him well and that is showing on the pitch.”



twitter: @Matt_Chambers_