Fired-up Cole's back on track says Fleetwood boss

The striker is yet to start a League One match this season but came off the bench to net Saturday’s winner at Northampton.

That 75th-minute strike and a triple save by Alex Cairns, which gained Manchester United keeper David De Gea’s seal of approval, ensured maximum points after two matches.

And after star summer signing Conor McAleny limped off with an ankle injury, Cole could be in line to start at home to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday.

Rosler was pleased with Cole’s improvement and said: “I’m really happy for Devante. He needed a performance, for himself but also for me, to see that he is back on track.

“He looked more mobile than last Tuesday (in the League Cup defeat by Carlisle). He was running more, addressing more the room behind or between the defenders and that is where he got his goal. I really hope that gives him a big boost.”

While Cole grabbed his chance, fellow striker Ash Hunter was left out of the squad in favour of development squad prodigy Ashley Nadesan.

Hunter has a chance to force his way back into the match-day squad this afternoon, when he is expected to feature for Paul Murray’s development squad in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Oldham, as is Wes Burns.

When McAleny hobbled off at Sixfields it was Burns who Rosler called upon.

Rosler says all three Saturday substitutes – Burns, Cole and Aiden O’Neill, helped their cause.

The head coach said: “I think Wes needs to realise that sometimes he just needs to push the ball and outsprint the opposition because he is very, very fast.

“That is why I brought him on but all three substitutes helped us. Obviously that gives them a better chance to start games.”

Striker Alex Reid has joined Wrexham on loan until October 8.

Town will stage a fans’ forum in the Parkside Suite at Highbury next Wednesday (6.30pm), when Uwe Rosler, Andy Pilley, Steve Curwood and two players will answer questions. Admission is free and selected beers will be on special offer.

Those unable to attend may email questions to [email protected]