James Hanson cannot wait to see Kyel Reid flying down the flank for City again.

Phil Parkinson admits that Hanson has lacked the ammunition since the dangerman winger tore a groin muscle against Rochdale.

Hanson broke a 16-game goal duck at Bristol Rovers with a trademark header from Garry Thompson’s cross.

And while City hang on for Reid’s return, Parkinson wants to see those playing out wide give the big targetman more to work with.

He said: “Hans hadn’t scored for a while but he’s missed the supply line as well.

“With Reidy and Zav (Hines), we were getting a lot of crosses in the box. Our stats will tell you that’s not been the case of late.

“That’s what the big man thrives on and I’m so pleased for him to get a goal. His all-round play has deserved it over recent weeks and that will do him the world of good.”

Reid is making steady progress with his recovery and could be back in action again in a couple of weeks. His return will not be soon enough for Hanson.

The striker said: “It will be a big help when Reidy’s back because you know exactly what sort of winger he is. I hope Thommo will do the same on the other side.

“I’m not making excuses (for not scoring). I’ve had some good chances in the past couple of games.

“I’d had a few half-chances before the goal at Bristol Rovers and thought it was going to be one of those days again. But I kept going and finally got my reward.

“It was a great ball in from Thommo. It had the power on the ball and just needed directing and I was delighted to see it go in.

“You want that sort of supply and hopefully now the first one has gone in, I can go on a little run. I’d like to get to ten by the end of the year.”

Parkinson felt Hanson’s goal cleared a major hurdle for the team as much as the centre forward himself.

The City chief said: “It’s so important for him and for us. You always need your strikers to score.

“I’d had a bit of a go at him at half-time. His overall game was okay but I didn’t think he was going into the box with enough intent. I don’t mind strikers missing chances as long as they get in that six-yard box.”