JOHN Coleman has backed Jimmy Ryan to be one of the best players in League Two this term after the midfielder produced an impressive performance in the opening game of the League Two season.

Stanley, who travel to Championship side Doncaster in the first round of the Carling Cup tomorrow, drew 0-0 at home to Aldershot in their season opener on Saturday.

Ryan was the Reds’ player of the season in 2008/09 and was back to his best at the weekend after a quieter campaign last time around, although the 21-year-old was surprisingly overlooked for the sponsors’ man of the match in favour of left back Dean Winnard.

Coleman said: “Jimmy was excellent. I can’t understand how he didn’t get man of the match.

“I think he got everyone’s man of the match apart from the one that was announced!

“Last season Jimmy by his own admission didn’t reach the heights he reached the previous season.

“But he’s come back as fit and as strong as ever, and I firmly believe he’ll shine as one of the best players in this league this season.”

Coleman, who has brought Mark Patterson on to his coaching staff full time after the former Blackburn midfielder helped out on matchdays last season, was pleased with Saturday’s display.

But he may look to bring in a new signing ahead of the cup clash with the club’s only two strikers, Rory Boulding and Craig Lindfield, both injury doubts.

“We’ll have to do our best and see what we can come up with for Tuesday,” said Coleman. “We’re still looking to bring people in.

“I think it was a solid performance. We passed the ball well when we could and showed a good energy.

“Aldershot are a good side and they’ll be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.

“We’ve got to take heart and take it into our next game.”