PHIL Parkinson is backing in-synch strike partners Gary Madine and Adam Le Fondre to fire Wanderers towards promotion.

The Whites head to Oxford United tonight hoping to put more daylight between themselves and third-placed Fleetwood Town.

Victory could extend the gap to four points and Parkinson is banking on his front men to continue the promising partnership they have struck up since January.

Le Fondre has scored four times in his last three starts while Madine tops the club’s goal charts with nine, alongside Josh Vela.

“I’ve been really pleased with what I have seen from them both recently,” the manager said. “They are playing close together up top and I think their understanding is getting better all the time.

“There were a few terrific moments against Northampton, none better than when Gaz sent Alfie clean through with a lovely little exchange.

“They are both intelligent footballers and they are on the same wavelength, which is good for the team and they are going to be important.”

Madine has started to win over his doubters this season by commanding a regular place in Parkinson’s line-up. And his importance to the cause is emphasised by the fact Wanderers have not won a league game without him.

“I’d like to think Gary is just letting his football do the talking,” Parkinson told The Bolton News. “He had a very frustrating year last year and there were reasons for that. This time his fitness levels are a lot better and he is playing well, a great role for the team.

“When we had players in behind him earlier in the season he was a very good platform but now I think he’s revelling in partnering with Alfie up top.”

Le Fondre’s return for a second loan spell is now looking like excellent business for the Whites and Parkinson believes that now the 30-year-old is match fit once again, he will be a key man in the run-in.

“This is him, this is normal service resumed and where we expect him to be,” he said.

“The supporters have really identified with him.”