Richard could be new Brooker
KEITH DOWNING has described his latest transfer target Marc Richards as being in the 'Steve Brooker mould' of centre forward.
Cheltenham Town are believed to have submitted a six-figure bid for Port Vale's Richards, but Downing is yet to talk to the 26-year-old.
Brooker was in the Bristol City side held to a 1-1 draw by the Robins last night.
He made a big impact during his impressive loan spell with Cheltenham last season as he recovered from a series of injury problems.
All Robins followers would relish the chance to see the physical and imposing Brooker back at Cheltenham during the forthcoming campaign, but Downing says Richards could do a similar job if he can be lured away from Vale.
“People talk about us bringing Brooker back and Marc Richards is a close as you get to Brooker,” Downing said.
“Steve is trying to forge his way into City's first XI so we can't wait for him and we have to make moves for other people prior to that.
“Marc got five goals towards at the end of last season and he has pedigree. I have done my homework on him as a person and he ticks all the right boxes.
“He will see what we try to do here and I think he would enjoy it. It's now down to Vale to let us speak to him and we will take it from there.”
Downing's team claimed their third consecutive 1-1 draw against higher level opposition at Whaddon Road, with Ashley Vincent netting their first half goal shortly after signing his new one-year contract.
“Ash Took his goal well he I am pleased he has signed,” Downing said.
“Supporters may ask 'is he good enough?', but there is more to come with Ash Vincent.
“We are in a similar situation to that of Kayode Odejayi three years ago. The boy has had a cruciate injury and he is still a young lad. He is still growing, getting strong, better. He still has his pace and he has more composure now.
“Of course Paul Connor and Ashley need support and competition and we are trying hard to give them that.”
Defender Shane Duff missed last night's match after feeling tightness in a thigh during the warm-up.
Vincent was withdrawn early in the second half with a tight groin, but both players are expected to be fit to face Oxford United away on Saturday.
5 Comments
by Pete, In2Print
Wednesday, July 30 2008, 1:14PM
“Checked the Blackpool website-slow day at work! D'Aggers came on as a first half sub against Shrewsbury and was later substituted himself in the 2nd half. Come back home -you know you want to!!!”
by Tom, Cheltenham
Wednesday, July 30 2008, 10:25AM
“Port Vale isn't a real place. Only club in League football not to be named after a town. Good bit of trivia that.
Completely off topic, but I wonder if KD has spoken to Blackpool about the possibility of having D'Ago back this season - even on loan? Can't imagine he's ready for their first team just yet...”
by andy, cleeve
Wednesday, July 30 2008, 10:07AM
“jim, port vale renowned for champagne then is it? wind you neck in, "Rico" will surely decide for himself where he wants to play, although by the sounds of it, financial gain is his main motivation.”
by Jim, Tenerife
Wednesday, July 30 2008, 7:54AM
“Keep your paws of you Bumkins, He prefers Champagne to Cider. We are on the way up with Rico at the front.”
by Les, Cheltenham
Wednesday, July 30 2008, 7:49AM
“If Keith Downing thinks he's right for the club, believe in his judgement and get him here.
If this club is to banish it's 'little' title then the board need to be a bit more adventurous and pro-active when it comes to transfers.
That's not a criticism, but if we are to show the footballing world that we mean business these are the sort of deals we need to be doing
To show some ambition to the outside world bringing in players like Richards and paying up some money for him will help portray that image.”