Exeter v Ebbsfleet United

STRIKER John Akinde is pushing for a starting place ahead of Ebbsfleet United's trip to Exeter in the fourth round of the Setanta Shield on Friday.

The youngster came on as an 84th-minute substitute and scored the fourth goal in Fleet’s 4-1 win over Carshalton Athletic in the FA Trophy first round on Saturday.

Manager Liam Daish was full of praise for the 18-year-old following the game and could be tempted to start him against Exeter.

Daish said: "John’s been out at Whitstable as a first team player. He's come back to us now and is a good addition. He is stronger and is looking good in training. If he can realise his strength and what he's got then I think he’ll be a good acquisition for us."

Akinde is a product of the club's Conference Youth League squad and has progressed into first-team contention following a number of decent showings in Kent Senior Cup games.

He has played on loan for Margate and Whistable Town.

Daish added: "John is a big lad and is a strong boy. He is one of those players who can be a little bit of a gentle giant sometimes. If he knew his own aggression and his own strength he could be a handful for anyone."

Daish has no new injury or suspension worries ahead of Fleet's trip to St James Park and will be boosted by the return of striker Chukki Eribenne who served the last game of his three- match ban on Saturday.

He added: "To have Raph (Raphael Nade), John and Chukki back fit gives us a bit of competition and a few options."