Francis tipped for Rangers break

The new Alfreton striker has tipped his former team-mate to make the step up from impact sub with the forward line severely depleted, as question marks still linger over the fitness of top scorer Nick Wellecomme who is struggling with a back injury.

Francis came to the club at the start of the season after leaving Tamworth but has yet to start a game, although he did score his first goal against Hinckley on October 3 and has continued to feature sporadically from the bench.

Manager Chris Brindley could now be set to thrust him into the starting line-up for the return Blue Square North fixture at Hinckley on Saturday, which Mills believes could be beneficial to all parties.

The former Rangers striker said: "Eugene deserves a chance, he's a bright and sharp lad so should be given a fair shot. That is football for you, it's like a game of musical chairs. Me leaving the football club has opened up a gap, one that he could possibly fill.

"But I am sure the gaffer there will have to bring somebody in, with Nick struggling through injury."

Mills is not the only one who believes Francis' time is now - Rangers captain Bobby Wilson is also trumpeting the call.

The two are close friends through their Nottingham links and the skipper is hoping the 23-year-old's breakthrough is at hand.

Wilson said: "Eugene has been working hard to catch the manager's eye and could give the team something different. He has pace and trickiness, rather then just two big lads up front.

"This Saturday, he will probably get his chance and I think he will take it. We will see, and I suppose the manager also has plans to bring somebody else in."

Last weekend's overnight stay for the game at Blyth Spartans also revealed another of Francis' hidden talents - on the game console playing 'Pro Evolution Soccer.'

Wilson added: "I am up there in the 'Pro Evo' stakes and the Notts boys have held their own to be fair, because Eugene is pretty good as well."