John Barnes gives striker Michael Ricketts chance

Aug 19 2009 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

JOHN BARNES believes he may be giving Michael Ricketts a “last chance” to revive his declining career at Prenton Park.

Tranmere boss Barnes handed the former England striker a one-year contract over the weekend and says he is satisfied the 30-year-old has the desire to be a success in a Rovers shirt.

Barnes said: “Michael recognises he should be playing at a higher level. What happened in the last three or four years is really down to him. Now he’s 30 this may be his last chance to do something.

“When I look at the strength, ability and pace he has, then the attitude is the most important thing. That really has to come from him.”

Ricketts was one of the hottest striking talents in the country while he was scoring 46 goals in 68 senior starts for Bolton at the start of the decade.

But his fortunes took a downward turn after a £3.5 million move to Middlesborugh in January 2003 and he failed to settle in a series of moves that took him down the divisions to Leeds, Preston, Oldham and Walsall.

Ricketts spent a little time training with Brighton and Stockport this summer, following his release by Walsall at the end of last season, and is short of fitness. He was not involved in Tranmere’s 4-2 win over Gilligham on Saturday.

Barnes said: “We’ve got to get Michael Ricketts fit. We are going to work him while he is playing in the reserves and training every day.

”I have spoken to Michael and I believe him when he says he really wants to get fit and do well for us. He’s had his problems at certain clubs over recent years. When people say it’s been hard to motivate him, I believe self-motivation is the biggest thing with him.”