Valerien Ismael has laid down the challenge for Emmanuel Dennis and Cauley Woodrow to prove their value to Blackburn Rovers.
The Frenchman has worked with both players previously. Dennis was at Watford last season whilst Woodrow had his best goal-scoring campaign in the Barnsley team that reached the play-offs under Ismael.
Dennis is suspended for the weekend trip to Derby County after his two bookings against Norwich. It's a shame as, in the view of the Blackburn boss, he's in far better condition than when he arrived at Vicarage Road last January.
Ultimately, Ismael feels it is time for the 27-year-old to find a home and show his quality after a few stop-start seasons.
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"It's a pity because I found since I came that Dennis looks sharper than I saw him last year at Watford," Ismael said.
"More focus, really sharp in shape, positive. But the good thing is it's only one game and three days later we have another game.
"At some point, he has a point to prove. When you are in a club and every year you are on loan here, on loan there, at some point, you just want to settle and to find your home. And for yourself as well to prove that you are able to compete at any level.
"I think that Dennis is at that crossroads for him now. I think that he feels himself well with us. Hopefully, in the last ten games for him, he will be able to show his quality.
"I know that he is able to score goals and he will be able to help the team."
Another player who knows Ismael well is Woodrow. He has also struggled for consistency and minutes since Ismael departed South Yorkshire for West Brom.
The injury to Andi Weimann and a reunion with his former head coach is a big boost to his prospects of getting his career back on track.
Ismael again conceded it was 'good for him' that he had come in and insisted he will get his opportunity to impress.
"I think at the minute it's good, you see the depth. Andy is now out but we have some players who are able now to step up, to show up," Ismael said.
"Cauley Woodrow is one of them, I know him well. What Andi was able to do, Cauley is able to do as well. He knows where is the goal, he knows the game, he is fit. So at some point, he will get his chance as well to come back.
"We've got Yuki who is coming back as well. He had a great start with the Rovers so hopefully, he can get a great finish. I think we have a good depth in the squad so I'm pleased with the squad at the minute.
"I think it's a good thing that I'm coming in for him. It's easy when you know the player, you know his quality. I spoke with him already.
"Now he knows himself that he wants to prove something. He knows that he is able to help the team. I know he is able to help the team.
"It's just a question of timing now. When is the right time for him and as soon as the chance is coming we expect him to take his chance and to help the team."
He added: "Right through the spine of your team you've got players back who haven't played a lot lately.
"Yes, it's great stability. You need always, as we said, the spine. Important player.
"Now it's all about managing them through the week. We will see. We assess the situation after every game.
"We take the game one by one and for sure we want to start the game with a strong team. We will see that now we have more choice. It's great to see in the training session as everyone is back.
"The energy is very positive. Everyone shows up to contribute, to stay that way. It gives me more possibility to decide."
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