OFFRANDE Zanzala is destined to be a top-class striker, that is according to his Accrington Stanley manager John Coleman.

For a period last season, the Congolese man looked a real talent as he was scoring decisive goals for the League One side

The Reds boss believes the straight red card he received in the 3-0 defeat against Bradford City at Valley Parade has set Zanzala back a year in his development as he has been plagued with injuries since that moment.

"Possibly the worst thing that happened to him was the 20-minute bad spell against Bradford and then he lost his head and that set him back probably a year that one 20-minute spell," said the Stanley manager.

"Hopefully, he’s learned from that. He’s great to be around, he’s a smashing lad. He’s got great enthusiasm and he’s got a great manner about him.

"He’s always got a smile on his face. I back myself 100 percent that he’s going to be a top player."

With Billy Kee absent as he recovers from his troubles with his mental health, Zanzala is one of four strikers to have featured for the Reds so far this season - with Dion Charles and Colby Bishop seemingly the preferred combination thus far.

"We probably over relied on Billy Kee, more as a talisman really. We’ve got good players and when we get them all fit and they’re pushing each other for places.

"You’ve got to think that can only lead to an increase in productivity."

Stanley could be without striker Colby Bishop today against Southend United, but Coleman expects Zanzala to be fit for the match at Roots Hall.

"I don’t know about Colby [Bishop], Ozzy [Zanzala] came through a really good training session on Monday, looked really sharp," added Coleman.

"We had 45 minutes planned for him on Wednesday in a bounce game, but that didn’t materialise because of the weather. I certainly expect Offrande [Zanzala] to be involved at the weekend."