Barren run is hurting chances

JAMES WESOLOWSKI (left) battles for possession.

JAMES Wesolowski harboured happy memories of his previous visit to Deepdale, having slammed home two goals in the thrilling 3-3 draw last season.

But Athletic’s captain hasn’t hit the net in the league since that night in October, 2011 — Including an unhappier Preston return this week, Weso has endured a barren run of 40 league appearances and 18 months without scoring except in the FA Cup.

Lee Croft is another notable non-scorer this season. Injured for the Carlisle game but back at Preston, he has featured in 48 games without beating a goalkeeper.

These statistics are not to denigrate the overall contributions of these two vital cogs in Athletic’s midfield machinery.

Wesolowski has been given the job of providing energy and destructive qualities in defensive areas rather than arriving late to get on the end of crosses in the penalty area.

And Croft has never been particularly prolific in front of goal. Athletic can’t reasonably have expected that to change in 2012-13. He can also point to an excellent assist record.

But a lack of goals from midfield has become a growing concern as the season has ground down the patience of fans, managers, board members and players alike.

Every player has a responsibility to chip in with goals far more than they have so far.

If Jose Baxter doesn’t register — and he won’t, thanks to a two-match ban — it is difficult to see who else will find the net.

Four of second-top scorer Matt Smith’s goals came in FA Cup ties. In league terms, former player Matt Derbyshire, who left in December, remains the only one to have hit the net four times.

One behind him on three is Youssouf Mchangama — also no longer with the club.