PETER THORNE has received a vote of confidence from Cardiff City manager Lennie Lawrence. Thorne, the club's record buy at close to £1.8m when he was signed from Stoke City last season, heads into today's home game with Wycombe Wanderers with only one league goal to his credit.
Apart from a Worthington Cup strike in a 5-1 stroll at Boston United last month, Thorne's only success in front of goal this season was against Port Vale in a 3-1 win way back on August 13.
While Wales striker Robert Earnshaw - doubtful today after being taken ill at the Welsh Football Awards on Thursday - has scored 12 goals this season, including 11 in his last seven outings, Thorne has failed to take the chances that have come his way.
But Lawrence defended his Manchester-born targetman, even though some City fans have begun to question his goal return
"Thorney's a great team player," said Lawrence, quick to point out the strengths of his all-round game.
"When I came to the club he played in that position behind the front two and in recent times he's moved up to an orthodox striker.
"I think Earnie would be the first to say that without him there his goal-scoring record would be less.
"Earnie's done brilliantly with his pace, skill and bravery but Thorney's been a massive help to him.
"Of course we'd like him to score for his sake and our sake but as long as he keeps playing the way he is and we keep winning then it will come.
"It's only a temporary thing because he's a class act."
