PAOLO Di Canio was full of praise for Alan Connell after the striker scored on his return to the starting line-up in the 2-0 win over Torquay tonight.

Connell has been left out of the first 11 in recent games but was named in the side tonight and clearly grasped his chance with both hands with a fine overall performance.

"In the last two games he started he didn't convince me," explained Di Canio.

"He didn't play well, as many players have over the course of the season.

"I waited a few games and I saw him angrier in training sessions and so I played him and credit goes to him.

"He worked hard, he got to every single ball and he scored the goal.

"If he plays like this he deserves to play, there would be no reason why I don't want to play him.

"I am the manager and I can accept there are some players the people love.

"Today Alan was crucial from kick off and I am very happy because he is an important player."

Oliver Risser got Town's second with a bullet of a header.

The Namibian has played both in midfield and defence this season, and Di Canio could not speak highly enough of his value to the squad.

"He can cover different positions and gives us options," he said.

"He scored a very crucial goal and he was fantastic. He arrived in the right time for the goal and it was a good header."

As for the game itself, Di Canio was thrilled with the response given by his players following the Crewe defeat.

"They showed that they are incredible professionals and we had a fantastic game today," he said.

"The fans were fantastic again and I would like to thank them for their support."