Rhys Oates must make his huge effort count for more demands Mansfield Town boss Nigel Clough
Mansfield Town striker Rhys Oates has been told to make more happen when he has the ball in the final third after his huge running statistics and spectacular goal saw Stags still lose 2-1 at Northampton Town last time out.
Stags host Huddersfield Town on Saturday and manager Nigel Clough is desperate for Oates to achieve his potential this season after a run of frustrating campaigns wrecked by injury.
“It was a no-brainer for me in the summer to take up his option, despite his injuries, as there are very few players like Rhys out there,” said Clough.
“I was frustrated at Northampton as he had just scored another magnificent goal – the quality of his goals this season have been incredible.
“But he then had an awful lot of the ball as well.
“He did put some good balls in, but I really wanted him to get another one himself or pop one on a plate for somebody else.
“It was a good cross for Lucas (Akins) in the last five minutes and Lucas should have scored.
“But Rhys just needs to concentrate in that final third when he's in or around the penalty area.
“His running stats at Northampton were through the roof – one of the highest of the season - and I think this is the best and longest spell he has had of games for quite some time.
“But at the same time it is a waste putting that much effort in and coming out with nothing because of other sides of the game.
“It was no lack of effort or running by Rhys and he was right up there with the Plymouth game, but what a waste of effort just to do the other side of the game in certain ways and certain things not to get a win.”