As one of the few Bristol Rovers defenders who hasn't been injured this season, Luca Hoole will know better than most about the potential of Joey Barton's striking department. On matchdays, the Welshman relishes watching Aaron Collins, Ryan Loft et all cause problems at the other end, but in midweek on the pitches at The Quarters, he is in the firing line.
Ahead of Saturday's win against Cambridge United, it was Josh Coburn and Loft leading the attack in training that the defender had to handle. With both men 6ft 3ins and above, needless to say it was not fun, but it reaped rewards in Saturday's 2-1 – with Coburn netting the winner – Hoole knows that bruising partnership can be a huge weapon for the Gas.
"I’m buzzing for Josh," Hoole said. "He deserved the goal and I’m delighted he got it. He’s such a handful. He and Lofty together is frightening when they just pin you, it is tough and they could be some force up there."
