Dickov praises strikers

ATHLETIC manager Paul Dickov was full of praise for his strike duo after his side put Crewe to the sword.

Shefki Kuqi netted the ninth and 10th goals of a highly profitable 14-game season with Athletic so far, thanks to keen striking instincts in following up shots from outside the penalty area.

And in-form support man Robbie Simpson could hardly have been more unfortunate not to register his first strikes in Athletic colours, hitting the crossbar with a fine volley and striking numerous shots narrowly wide of the target.

“The two goals Shefki got, I don’t think anyone else on the pitch would have scored,” Dickov said.

“We certainly wouldn’t have scored those sort of goals last season.

“He was in the box reacting and produced two great finishes.

“As for Robbie, if he keeps putting in performances like that, I don’t care if he scores or not.

“He is a great kid. The boys love him and he loves being here.

“The quality of his football is exceptional at times.”