Stead

[MAD_MAGPIE]

But then dried up for the rest of the season. Like I say, I'm not criticising him because whether he scores or not he always gives you his all, but I think most observers could see he did run out of steam in the final few months, perfectly understandably.

I was all for thanking him for his service and releasing him last summer, but he triggered his automatic contract extension and on current form he's exceeding my expectations, but he needs to be managed carefully if he's going to last the season in sharp form. It would be true for any player in his mid 30s.

I agree completely. Last season we did not have Hemmings or Dennis so relied to heavily on Stead and Ameobi who through no fault of their own with a combined age of 71 the season took its toll on them. As others have said Forte was the man who gave us that push.

This season it’s different or it should be. We have Hemings who is currently sitting alongside in place of Ameobi. So he brings the energy up top and goals. Likewise we have Enzio on the wing who brings much needed pace and can set up goals for the likes of Stead.

The one thing that has not happened yet is Kevin Dennis. My own thoughts are that in the times I have seen him the game passed him by and he appeared to be unfit and or overweight??? A couple of shots here and there is not good enough I’m afraid.

I’m hoping his disappearance means he can come into the side at some point when Stead is ready to be rested and show us why we signed him and why he got 20 goals last season because to say I was disappointed in his performances is an understatement. But then in fairness in those first seven games not many players came out with much credit.