Leon Clarke told to fight for place at Wolves

Leon Clarke was today urged to stick in there as Wolves' striker search dragged on towards the transfer deadline.

Clarke has become the forgotten man of Kenny Jackett's strikeforce as he plays second fiddle to first choice Nouha Dicko as hopes of landing Chelsea's Patrick Bamford look like receding.

Wolves are one of several clubs in for Bamford but he looks all set to sign for Middlesbrough on a season-long loan.

Chris Wood is unlikely to be available until the loan window opens next month as he continues to be involved at Leicester, where he is keen to stake his claim and is already off the mark in the Premier League.

Jackett is desperate to reinforce their front line before Monday's 11pm cut-off for permanent signings but have so far drawn a blank after ruling a move for Sunderland's Danny Graham is too expensive.

And with Liam McAlinden out for Saturday's visit of Blackburn with a calf injury, Jackett is urging Clarke to be ready.

"His aims are to try to get that number nine shirt and hang onto it," said the head coach.

"I've picked Nouha Dicko four times now."

but this group have started very well and justified a settled side.

"The minute that's not the case then things will change, but when it does change you need the players that are capable of challenging those.

"International call-ups, fatigue and injuries can all happen along the way.

"They haven't happened yet which is why we have a settled side.

"For all of those players out of the team, I say to them when you get your chance, be ready."

Jackett has accepted he must play a waiting game over Wood.