MARK Hughes is convinced Dara Costelloe’s first senior goal is coming as he finds his feet in City’s strike force.
The on-loan Burnley youngster is still looking to break his duck after having several efforts in the midweek win at Gillingham.
But he goes into tomorrow’s Valley Parade clash against Colchester with a glowing recommendation from Hughes, who has been impressed with his efforts as Andy Cook’s attacking partner.
Hughes said: “Dara’s physical stats are through the roof.
“All he is missing is a goal and he’s getting closer. It’s only a matter of time with the energy and movement that he’s got.
“Let’s hope it’s this weekend. He deserves that for the effort he has put in. He’s been a big part of our recent performances.
“We’ve had discussions and done work in training in terms of where he needs to be in relation to his team-mates, and most importantly with Andy as well.
“I think Andy is benefiting from that link-up. We look at the stats after every game and their connection is growing every time they play.”
Hughes can see how quickly Costelloe has learned the level after being thrown into his debut at Wimbledon in January following just one training session.
“I did that with Scott Banks as well and sometimes it’s a case of sink or swim,” added Hughes.
“I didn’t think he did badly, it was just a couple of times he was a little bit naïve. It was different from the football he was used to.
“He had some wily old foxes at this level who’d been round the block a couple of times and maybe tried to make an impression on him physically.
“A couple of occasions he probably didn’t see some challenges coming.
“But I have to say he’s learning very quickly. He clearly understands how he can affect games now.
“It’s great that he’s able to learn as he’s playing. We’ve got a couple of injuries now, and Vadaine (Oliver) is obviously still unavailable, so it’s up to young players to take their chance when they come in and he’s doing very well.”
Matt Derbyshire is eyeing a possible return to training at the end of next week after his thigh injury.
Abo Eisa remains some way off with his injured hamstring, although Hughes remains confident that he will be back before the end of the season.
But Costelloe has the opportunity to nail down a place in the meantime - and his manager has noticed the difference the 20-year-old has made to the team since the Barrow defeat.
“That mobility and real drive at the top end of the pitch was something we probably lacked in that game,” he said.
“It’s something we’ve clearly addressed in the last two and got a lot more movement and energy up there. We’re creating more chances and looking better for it.
“We need that threat not only across but in behind as well. He just lengthens the game and gives us more time.
“If people are static ahead of you, that’s when your options are limited and you start passing it square and backwards.
“He’s a willing runner and makes intelligent runs that if we’re good enough, and I believe we are, we’ll be able to find.”
