Head coach Joey Barton says he is pleased with what he saw from his team, following Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Carlisle United.
The Cod Army recorded their second victory of pre-season at Brunton Park, courtesy of two goals from Paddy Madden and a header from Harrison Biggins.
Overall, Town were comfortable and put in a performance which pleased Barton.
“I thought other than the opening 20 minutes we were really good,” stated Barton.
“The longer than game went on, we showed greater energy and fitness levels and the work done in the last two or three weeks bared fruit.
“I thought Paddy [Madden] worked tirelessly as he always does for the team, and he got his reward with the penalty and the tap-in from the free-kick. Overall, I’m pleased.”
Barton reserved praise for Madden – who captained the side – as well as the returning Harry Souttar, following the big defender’s move back to the club on Thursday.
“Any striker in pre-season is keen to get their score tally on the move, and the earlier you get it moving the better.
“He’s [Souttar] come in and had a massive smile on his face all week. We all know the qualities he brings, and we know there was a number of clubs in our division after him, so for him to choose Fleetwood is testament to what we’re building here.”
The boss also provided an update on first team players who are currently injured, and missed the trip to Cumbria.
“Jack Sowerby, Kyle Dempsey, Ash Hunter and Craig Morgan all picked up niggles when we were out in Portugal, but they’re progressing nicely.
“Danny Andrew had a dead leg from Wednesday’s game but will pull through fine. We need to get minutes into Ash [Hunter], after he had a tackle with Lewie [Coyle] in training – fortunately after an x-ray he looks to be fine.
“Hopefully he can be involved on Tuesday against Burnley.”