Paddy Madden vows to get back among the goals for misfiring Fleetwood

It was a frustrating night in front of goal for Paddy Madden against Northampton

Simon Wiles loves the learning curve but wait for first Fleetwood win continues

After three years at Highbury, Madden is used to ending the League One season as Town’s top scorer. But this season midfielder Callum Camps is in front, with eight goals to Madden’s five.

In all competitions, summer signing Coutts has 10 goals and the Irishman seven.

The whole team is struggling for goals at present, with just four in their last 10 League One outings.

Madden (right) doesn’t cut himself any slack and, despite sometimes playing on the wing, and sees no reason why he shouldn’t reach his previous heights.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday's night goalless draw at home to Northampton Town, Madden said: "I’ve not been as prolific as I want. I’ve played a lot of games out wide but I’m not making excuses.

“I’ve scored goals from there before. I know I need to get more prolific.

“I’ve got seven goals and I think that’s the least I’ve had at this stage of the season since I came to the club.

“I know the goals will come back and when they do they’ll keep firing.

“My target is still 15 or 20 for the season and I’m confident I’ll get that.

“You have to approach the game differently if you’re out wide compared to being down the middle but I won’t make any excuses.

“I’m confident that wherever I play in the top three I’ll score goals. I need to kick on now, start returning the faith and getting myself back to how people know me.”

Madden has been named captain by Simon Wiles and revealed the squad are backing their interim boss.

“Definitely, Wilesy’s a brilliant coach and his ideas on the game are very refreshing,” the 30-year-old said.

“We’re playing reasonably well, if I’m being honest. We’re creating a few more chances than we were.”

Madden again went close against Northampton, though his most recent league goal came in Fleetwood's last victory at Swindon Town on December 12.

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 for your first month. Try us today by clicking here.