Star's praise for young and old

Last updated : 07 September 2004 By Andy Parsons
 Marsden has had a hard time off the field in the last week or so following a sudden illness to a close member of his family and it was not expected he would play against Luton on Saturday.

But the former Southampton midfielder came back strong and was the game’s man of the match, putting in his best personal performance of the season.

Lucas told Footymad: “I think Chris Marsden was fantastic against Luton. He showed all his quality and he had time on the ball.

“An hour into the game he was the best player on the pitch and if we had him against Oldham the other week I think we would have won.

“He has great organisational skills and after what he has been through this week, he came through strong.”

Wood meanwhile was deputising for the suspended Guy Branston and put in another confident display, impressing the last line of defence with his performance.

Lucas added: “I like Richard Wood myself. I think sometimes you don’t notice he is there as he is so calm and composed.

“He fits in well; he’s strong in the tackle and the air and excellent to play alongside. He is a quiet lad and gets on with his job with ease.”