PABLO Counago has embraced manager Jim Magilton's stinging criticism and says it will help him be a better player.

Derek Davis

By Derek Davis

PABLO Counago has embraced manager Jim Magilton's stinging criticism and says it will help him be a better player.

Counago hit the first goal in Town's 2-1 League Cup win over Colchester 48 hours after Magilton blasted him for not being a team player.

After leaving him out of the starting XI in the defeat by Wolves, Magilton told the club's website that he would not start the Spaniard in game until he felt Counago was putting in the required effort.

He said it was important to realise it was more important to play for play for the badge on the front of the shirt rather than the name on the back.

Counago who provided the spark for a mini-revival when he came on at half-time against Wolves inspired the Blues victory over the U's on Tuesday night and shrugged off Magilton's harsh words.

Counago said: “The manager has the right to say what he thinks.

“I could always do more and if the manager asks you to do more then that is because he thinks I'm not doing enough.

“He is right to say what he thinks. I like it that the manager asked me to do more because it means he thinks I can do more and I will always try to do more for the team.”

The former Celta Vigo striker was deployed in a deeper role than usual, although he did play there a couple of times last season, and pulled the strings behind Kevin Lisbie and Jon Walters in a 4-3-3 formation that reverted to 4-4-2 when Walters went to his customary right wing position.

Counago said: “Playing behind two strikers was different and it takes time to get used to it bit it was good to try something different.”

It was from there that Counago struck his first goal of the season after Iván Campo had played the ball forward to Walters who touched it into the Spaniard's path and he whacked in from almost 30 yards.

Although the keeper might have done better Counago was convinced it was a goal all the way and added: “I expected to it go in that is why I tried from there.”

Counago praised campo's contribution and is confident he will get even better once he is totally fit.

“Iván needs more games but he is going to be a massive signing for us.

“I can benefit because he passes so well and a serious player like him can give help to the whole team.”

Town will find out who they get in the third round when the draw is mad eon Saturday lunchtime and Counago is hoping a cup run can help improve the league form.

He said: “It was always important after Saturday to win and we did, so I'm happy for the team.

“We are in the next round and that is good for the group.

“A cup run can help us in the league. It gives us confidence and it is good to win.

“Saturday at Watford will be difficult but this will give everyone a lift.”

derek.davis@eadt.co.uk