Boss: I have to get best out of Keanu

KEANU Marsh-Brown has been given a vote of confidence by his manager Paul Dickov.

The 19-year-old was sent off for a dangerous two-footed lunge against Scunthorpe last week to pick up a three-game ban, two of which have been served.

That suspension was increased by two more matches at an FA disciplinary hearing, for his fist-swinging actions in the aftermath of the red card.

Marsh-Brown, represented by the PFA, pleaded guilty to a misconduct charge and will now be absent from the squad for fixtures up to and including Bournemouth on Saturday, March 24.

The former Fulham youngster has impressed with his quick-footed trickery if not, as yet, his finishing. And despite the show of ill-discipline against the Iron, Dickov feels it is worth nurturing what he sees as a special talent.

“Keanu has got to learn from it,” said Dickov. “I am not going to criticise him publicly.

“I have to get the best out of him and that is done by sitting down and talking to him about how to manage the game better.

“There have been lots of players like Keanu. Some go to the top, others drift out of the game.

“I want to make sure he goes all the way to the top.”




FACTOR 50 will have collection buckets out at Spotland on Saturday to raise money for the Christie malignant melanoma research fund.



The collection is particularly appropriate for Athletic's derby clash with Rochdale, given that Ernie Cooksey played for both clubs.