Akpro Gets the All Clear

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 09/12/2008

GRIMSBY have now got the nod from the FA to allow former Toulouse striker Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro to play for the Mariners. The FA have received the relevant paperwork from their Belgian counterparts, the absence of which had prevented Akpro from playing in Saturday's defeat at Port Vale.

Free agent Akpro signed an 18-month contract with Town last week but frustratingly red tape stopped him from making his debut at Port Vale, where Town once again failed to make the most of their scoring opportunities - hopefully something he will help address.

The Frenchman played in a 1-0 defeat to Leeds reserves last night at Elland Road, and almost scored on a number of occasions. The match gave Town the opportunity to assess his fitness before Saturday's match with Shrewsbury at Blundell Park. Town boss Mike Newell also handed a trial to former Fulham defender Adam Green, who played at left-back in the match against Leeds (a position Grimsby do not have much cover in, as they found to their cost on Saturday when regalar left back Tom Newey was injured).

Mike Newell will have to decide whether to start with Akpro on Saturday, or leave the Frenchman on the bench. If he does start then it is likely that Nathan Jarman will be demoted to a substitute. Alternatively Newell could go for a completely new front two, partnering Andy Taylor or Danny North with Akpro. Whatever he decides Town desperately need to get something from the game and get the points they need to start climbing the table.

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