Joey Barton claims Bristol Rovers have best striker in League One in bold statement

Bristol Rovers boss Joey Barton believes he has one of the best strikers in League One in the form of John Marquis.

Marquis is the Gas’ last summer signing to date having joined towards the start of their pre-season tour out in Portugal.

The 30-year-old joined on a free transfer after leaving Lincoln City following a six month stint at Sincil Bank following a move from Portsmouth.

Marquis is vastly experienced at third tier level and on three occasions has reached double figures in his six seasons experienced at this level.

The most impressive campaign from Marquis being back in 2016/17 when he netted 26 goals in 45 appearances, earning himself a place in the Team of the Year.

Barton said: ‘John Marquis is proven. He is the best striker in League One. He’s proven, it’s not me saying it, at Doncaster Rovers he was the best striker with his goals return and everything suggests that.

“He has still been a valuable striker in the division. The challenge for him is that he has come here to be the best striker. I fundamentally believe he will become the best striker in the division.”

Marquis is expected to spearhead Rovers’ attack this season with all signs leading to a system that deploys one striker.

Last season saw Barton deploy midfielders Anthony Evans and Sam Nicholson in the role as Brett Pitman and Leon Clarke struggled with injury, whilst Aaron Collins suffered with form.

Collins however after being moved into a central position and a change in system sparked a dramatic upturn in form.

The 24-year-old who was a reported target of Portsmouth this summer, ended up scoring 17 goals including a brace against Scunthorpe United on the final day of the League Two season.

He is expected to support Marquis this season as a left-sided attacking midfielder though things could change.

January signing Ryan Loft, who joined for an undisclosed fee from Scunthorpe United on a long-term deal is also an option.

Loft found playing opportunities hard based on the form of Collins and the arrival of Marquis may have put him lower down the pecking order.

But the former Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur striker isn’t being written off yet with hope extended to him, as well as waxing lyrical about one of his latest additions.

“There are some good strikers in the division but we lacked a number nine last year,” Barton admitted ahead of the visit of Forest Green.

“Clarke (Leon) came in to do that and suffered with injury as did Brett Pitman.   Aaron had to default in to that position and we have formulated another plan to get the job done. It is so refreshing to have a recognised number nine in the building.

“Lofty (Ryan Loft) isn’t far away from that.  We have to grow Lofty. He came in last January and he’s got all the components he needs. The last bit he needs is confidence and belief. I can’t give that to him and he can only get that on a match day.”