STEPHEN Dobbie might just have played his way into a contract with Wanderers.

After impressing in Austria, the experienced Scottish striker has had rave reviews from his two outings on English turf against Morecambe and Oldham Athletic.

Neil Lennon admitted after Tuesday’s 2-0 win at Boundary Park that an offer might well be on the cards.

“I thought he had a brilliant game,” said the Whites boss. “We brought him in to have a look at him and I think he’d be a very good acquisition if we could get him.

“He’s a very intelligent player with good movement and a lovely touch.

“He scores goals and he’s a free – so you’re always looking for players who can make you better and Stephen can maybe fill that role?”

Reaction to Dobbie’s potential arrival among Wanderers fans has been lukewarm, particularly as some believe his signing would hinder the chances of bringing in Adam Le Fondre.

Realistically, however, the Whites are going to struggle to match Cardiff City’s demands for last season's top scorer – whether that be a permanent or loan deal – and are having to make contingency plans.

Lennon believes the 32-year-old has got plenty to offer, and while tight finances definitely came into play when inviting the free agent in for a trial this summer, he has been impressed with what he has seen so far.

“I’ve always liked him – at Swansea, at Blackpool – and always kept an eye on his career,” Lennon said. “He was always a good goalscorer in Scotland and he’s also got that intelligence.

“Maybe he doesn’t have the pace but he’s certainly got technique to play in a good team. I think he’s thriving playing with good players.

“Some of his football was top drawer – he’s in good condition.”

Lennon also has a decision to make on ex-Charlton defender Lawrie Wilson, who produced a solid performance at Oldham and is likely to be used again on Friday at Scunthorpe United.

There is also the question of a back-up keeper, with Lennon trying to strike a deal to take Lee Camp from Bournemouth before the start of the new season.

The lack of right-backs in the squad may mean his contract takes precedence over the next week, and with Rob Hall closing in on a season-long move to MK Dons, there could finally be some wiggle room in a tight budget for Lennon to do some business.

Medo Kamara was also missing from the squad in midweek, prompting speculation that he too could be edging towards the exit door at the Macron Stadium.

“We’re hoping to get down the line with one or two deals over the next week or so,” he said.

“It’s a big challenge because we don’t really know where we are in terms of budget. We are looking at trying to get value for money but it’s difficult.

“Goalkeeper is a priority, a right back, another centre-forward, and there may be one or two going the other way so we’re still working on that.

“It’s slow going but we’re hoping a bit of business can get done soon. Hopefully the chairman can get his calculator out.”