PHIL Parkinson believes Clayton Donaldson can rescue a difficult first season with Wanderers.

The former Sheffield United striker scored his first league goal for a year against Preston North End last weekend and has still registered just three shots on target this season.

But after watching the 35-year-old put in a commanding display against his former club Birmingham City in midweek, Parkinson reckons the veteran has been unfairly pilloried.

“He has got real nous,” said the Wanderers boss. “That goal on Saturday, even though it only proved to be a consolation, has done him a lot of good.

“In fairness to Clayton his all-round performances have been good but he really led the line well (against Birmingham).”

Wanderers have struggled to score goals this season but playing a front two, Donaldson paired with Josh Magennis, was a productive move at St Andrew’s.

“Clayton and Josh were a real handful,” Parkinson said. “I thought Josh played well at the weekend against Preston, even given the result, and he built on it at Birmingham. He is looking fitter and stronger.”