Soccer: Huckerby focused on own place
Darren Huckerby is determined to make the most of Paulo Wanchope’s absence and remain in the Manchester City starting line-up.
With Wanchope recovering from a cartilage operation, the former Leeds striker scored twice in the 4-0 defeat of Grimsby on Tuesday night.
That took his tally for the season to eight goals and he looks set to retain his place alongside Shaun Goater against Nottingham Forest on Sunday.
Huckerby said: ‘‘I haven’t started that many games so I am happy with the number of goals I have got but with Paulo waiting in the wings, I know I have to score more.
‘‘I don’t think the boss will play all three up front so it is up to me to stay in. When you are given the chance you have to take it. It is up to me to keep going.
‘‘I am feeling fresh now and I hope the team can take this form into the Forest game.’’
Manager Kevin Keegan believes Huckerby has rediscovered his scoring touch because of the work he has put in on the training ground.
‘‘He is playing very well and has got himself very fit,’’ said Keegan. ‘‘He is doing the things that only Darren can do. If he keeps that up he will stay a regular in the side and I know that’s what he wants.’’
