Phil Parkinson admits he is pushing Charlie Wyke to add more goals for Sunderland - admitting his movement in the penalty area must improve.
Wyke has been central to Parkinson's Sunderland plans since his return from injury at Gillingham in early December.
In a period that has seen Sunderland lose just twice, Wyke has started the last 16 games, but has netted just the four goals. A ratio of one in every four a disappointing return for the centre forward.
Parkinson has been full of praise for the striker in recent weeks, despite some criticism from the terraces. The Sunderland boss has been keen to point out the unselfish work Wyke does for the team, helping to unleash fellow forwards Chris Maguire and Lynden Gooch when in possession, while providing work-rate and pressure when Sunderland are without the ball.
But Parkinson admits he would still like to see Wyke add more goals, with Northern Ireland international Kyle Lafferty chomping at the bit for a start.
“Yeah, we’re pushing him to try and add more goals," Parkinson said ahead of Saturday's return clash with Gillingham. "It’s about that quality of the delivery in the box, but also the movement in and around the 18-yard box.
“Games at this stage of the season are so tight, and they’re deciding in defining moments.
"When you lose it’s about responding and that’s what we have to do - respond well. It’s about small moments, moments of quality and we didn’t find it last weekend and we need it this time. It’s about taking the chances when they come along.
“Charlie, like everybody else, has got to keep making those movements and just show that bit of bravery to get across people in the box because that’s where goals come from.”
