Competition hots up in the striking department

High-profile summer recruits Clinton Morrison and Freddy Eastwood emphasised their first-choice credentials on Wednesday - the Irish international logging his first Sky Blues goal while his Welsh partner did everything but as he produced a man-of-the-match display against Aldershot.

But Robbie Simpson logged an admirably precise secondhalf double to stake his claim while Michael Mifsud's prodigal return hinted at his impact-player potential if he remains at the Ricoh for the final year of his contract.

And Coleman has also got Leon Best, recovering from his pre-season injury, and Leon McKenzie to factor into his spoiled-for-choice attacking equation.

"We are now edging towards the squad I want," he said. "It is smaller than we had last season but has much more quality.

"Freddy did well but there is more to come from him - it will take nine or 10 games before we see a free-flowing Freddy. He showed great touches and he will only get better."

Eastwood agreed: "I felt that bit sharper than I was on Saturday. I've been working hard in training this week because I need to get myself match-fit. It's going to take a while - the gaffer knows that - but I've just got to keep my head on my shoulders and hopefully it will soon come.

"I was pleased with my contribution but obviously my main job is to score goals - that's why Coventry signed me - so that was a bit disappointing.

"I had a lot of shots; the keeper pulled off some good saves, one clipped the post and another went just wide, so hopefully the goal will come on Saturday."

Coleman insisted: "I don't mind if he doesn't score a goal all season if he plays like that and creates for us like that.

"He set up two goals and was involved in everything we did. He brings something to the party that we didn't have before - he looked sharp but he can get fitter and sharper."

Simpson, the man who stole the show on Wednesday night, was predictably delighted with his two goals.

"I was disappointed with my performance in the first half, like some of the other lads," he said, "but I thought I showed a bit more what I can do in the second half and the two goals topped it off."