Nice guy needs to get nasty

GOAL hero Oumare Tounkara epitomised the cubs-to-lions ethic Athletic are seeking.

The loan striker is out of contract in the summer and this rampaging show – the 21-year-old powered a winning header in an excellent cameo against Carlisle – will have steeled manager Paul Dickov’s desire to acquire him permanently.

Against a side chasing a play-offs position, the likeable Frenchman was the one imposing himself.

In a more refined fashion, so too was Carl Winchester, a star turn in central midfield with his composed passing.

And Kirk Millar – out of contract in the summer - provided plenty of energy on the right flank, as did substitute David Mellor on the opposite wing when emerging from the subs' bench.

Dickov is hoping every one of his young stars will become fully-fledged in the near future.





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