PATIENT Francois Zoko has declared himself finally ready to deliver as City approach the hectic festive period.

The 31-year-old on-loan Blackpool striker has played less than half an hour’s football in three substitute appearances so far. He replaced match-winner Billy Clarke in stoppage time at Chesterfield on Saturday.

But Zoko is not concerned by the lack of minutes on the pitch – and believes it has given him the opportunity to sharpen up his game in time for the busy schedule to come.

City play six times before the Ivorian’s loan is up for renewal after the Yeovil game on January 17. Zoko insists he is fit and firing to make his contribution.

He said: “It’s normal to want to play every game but sometimes you have to look at your past football experience. You can understand the situation better by doing that.

“I didn’t have a pre-season. I had one move that was 90 per cent done but then it didn’t go through for some reason.

“After that I had to look at my plan again and I went to Blackpool. I signed on August 15 and played straight away on the Saturday.

“It wasn’t an easy situation for everybody there but it was the choice I made.

“Now my fitness is much better. I’m in a good way and really expect to do something good in the games coming up.”

Zoko has appeared in 14 games for Championship strugglers Blackpool and scored in their first win of the season against Cardiff.

But new boss Lee Clarke questioned the fitness levels of the squad when he took over and Zoko admitted he still needed to get up to speed after the disrupted summer.

He has been working with head of sports science and fitness Nick Allamby since joining City last month and is impressed with the training facilities.

“Nick has helped me a lot and the place is very professional. It makes it easier to work well because everything is so good.

“I have played for four years in England and I know how physical the game is. I’m 31 and know my body has to be right.

“If I play straight away and don’t do well then it is no good for me or any help for the team. Then everybody loses out.

“I spoke to the manager when I came and know the way he works. I have not played a lot but I’m making sure I am ready to go out there and deliver and to make things happen.

“I have come here to do well. For the manager, it’s a good tool to have someone like me on the sidelines and working.

“For the team too, we have players like Hans (James Hanson) as well who can come on up front and do the business.

“It helps coming to a club that are getting good results and I’m happy with what I am doing at the training ground.

“Treat your body properly and then you’ll go on and do the business.

“There are a lot of important games coming up now and I’m really excited about that.”