Friday, October 03, 2008

Kyle can cut it, says Deeley


2:34pm Friday 3rd October 2008

By Andrew Simpson

WITTON should be wary of a familiar face tomorrow, according to manager Nigel Deeley.

His Albion side line up against former forward Kyle Wilson, a player that currently tops the UniBond Premier Division scorers’ chart after netting 11 times in league and cup so far this season.

“We’ve got to keep him quiet,” said Deeley.

“I know a few Witton supporters were not taken by him last season when he came here but I know he’s a good player.

“I even asked him to come here to do pre-season with us before he signed for FC United.”

Wilson was released by former Witton manager Jim Vince after scoring four goals in seven starts over Christmas.

He lead a Rebels attack that has netted seven goals in their past three games.

Deeley has backed his players to shine against the league new boys tomorrow, Saturday, in front of a four-figure crowd.

“Bring it on,” said the Albion boss.

“It’s a fixture everybody looked out for in the summer because of the support they have and the atmosphere at their matches.

“I also feel it has come at the right time for us as they’ve not been as potent as they might have expected since coming into this division.”

The Rebels ran out 4-0 winners at Ossett in their last match, but before that were winless in the previous five.

Albion make the short trip following a midweek FA Cup exit at the hands of Gateshead but their performance, particularly before the break, is cause for optimism.

Deeley has a full squad to pick from – except long-term absentees Mattone Awang and Kieran Lugsden – including skipper Brian Pritchard who returns from an Achilles injury.

Kick off is 3pm.