Cameron Jerome and the rest of the new-look Wanderers’ strikeforce are ‘licking their lips’ at the goal prospects on offer with the Whites.
Jerome and fellow new recruit Victor Adeboyejo had their first close-up view of Wanderers at Charlton Athletic last Saturday as Ian Evatt’s men secured an impressive 2-1 win.
Both came off the bench after goals from Aaron Morley and Dion Charles had set up a third win in four league games to stay firmly in the top six.
The margin of victory and could and should have been greater and Jerome liked the look of what he’s seen as he settles into life with Wanderers.
“It’s been pleasing so far. The result last Saturday was a great one to kick-start my time off but for the boys as well to bounce back after the week before (losing at Derby),” said the vastly experienced front man who joined the Whites from Luton Town to add another stop to his impressive career journey.
“I thought some of the play at times was top-notch. It was top-level stuff with the detail in the play, the patience, the build-up and the chances we created.
“Looking at the structure of the team and the way we attack, I was looking at some things at the training ground with the manager and a few of the other new players and we were sort of licking our lips at the chances we were creating.
“It is the detail and the philosophy the way the manager wants to play.
“It is rewarding for the forward players. When it works it really works. The proof is in the pudding and last Saturday with the amount of chances we created I think our XG (expected goals) was 5.2 which is crazy really, for an away side. It was pleasing.”
Jerome was one of six new faces to arrive at the University of Bolton Stadium in a productive January transfer window.
Evatt added extra defensive strength in the loan capture of Manchester City youngster Luke Mbete and further boosted his forward options with Jerome, Adeboyejo, Dan Nlundulu, Shola Shoretire and wideman Randell Williams all coming in to add to the cutting edge.
“I think it was the ideal time for the club to add a little bit more depth and keep the feel-good factor and momentum going,” added Jerome.
“This is where seasons are won and lost. If you have a positive window you can keep the continuity and confidence going within the side.
“You’re playing for prizes. The prizes are given out at the end of the season and we want to be there when the prizes are handed out.”
After making more than 200 Premier League appearances, scoring 160 goals and sharing in three promotion successes to the top flight Jerome has nothing to prove.
But the striker is still looking to make a positive impression if he gets the chance to face Cheltenham Town on Saturday in what would be his first appearance at the Unibol since playing there for Norwich City six years ago.
“You’re always excited as a player making your home debut,” Jerome added.
“You always want to showcase your talent in front of the home fans.
“I’m sure some of the older fans might be aware of my talents already. But you can give them a gentle reminder you’ve still got a bit of juice left in the tank and for the younger fans it will be nice to be able to showcase some stuff.
“I’m absolutely looking forward to the game and hopefully we can get another big crowd here and they can get right behind the boys.”