Joey Barton delighted with Fleetwood's attacking options but looks to strengthen midfield

Joey Barton is tempted to strengthen Fleetwood's midfield before the transfer window closes but the Town boss is delighted with the competition for places in attack.
Fleetwood celebrate Ched Evans' goal at TranmereFleetwood celebrate Ched Evans' goal at Tranmere
Fleetwood celebrate Ched Evans' goal at Tranmere
Read More
MATCH REPORT: Tranmere Rovers 0 Fleetwood Town 2

Speaking after Ched Evans scored on his first Fleetwood appearance in the 2-0 friendly win at Tranmere Rovers, Barton was pleased with Town’s goal threat.

That attacking ethos also saw Kyle Dempsey score for the second game in a row in his new left-sided role.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Head coach Barton said: “We’ve got a number of options in those wide slots – the likes of Conor McAleny, Ash Hunter, Bobby Grant and Wes Burns, who came on and made a great impact.

“Kyle Dempsey got his goal and his all-round play was good.

“The lads are really at it and everybody is obviously competing to make sure they start the season.”

It is not just for the wide roles in his front three that Barton has healthy competition and he was overjoyed at Sheffield United loanee Evans’ debut, adding: “Ched made a great run and finished as we all know he can.

“With Paddy Madden, Ched and obviously Ashley Nadesan in competition for that number nine spot, I think we’re in a really healthy state. They are really good players.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“They are all getting on the pitch and making an impact, which is key for us.”

But Barton admitted that a young midfield, which on Saturday included development squad defender Nathan Sheron alongside Harrison Biggins and Jason Holt, might need some added experience.

With Rangers loanee Holt set to miss the season-opener against Wimbledon on Saturday week due to suspension, it would be no surprise to see 20-year-old Sheron make his EFL debut.

Barton said at Tranmere: “For me we look a little bit young in midfield at the minute. Nathan Sheron and Harrison Biggins did well in there today.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Jack Sowerby was another youngster in there. If we could add a little experience to the midfield we might take the opportunity.

“If you can add quality to the squad I think you would take the opportunity to do that.”

Evans was one of three signings made by Town on Friday, alongside forward Chris Long and midfielder James Wallace, but was the only one of the trio considered fit enough to feature at Prenton Park.

Evans, who took Town’s total of summer signings to nine, said: “I’m just getting that hunger back to play again and score goals, which is really pleasing.

“Nothing is better than coming straight into a club, getting on with all the lads instantly and getting straight involved.”

Fleetwood’s next pre-season fixture is at Morecambe on Saturday.