Martin Paterson netted twice to help Huddersfield Town Under 21s win 4-1 at Ipswich Town – now Chris Powell wants him to step out of the shadows and force his way back into the first-team reckoning.

The Northern Ireland striker, unsettled last term, is working his way back to full fitness after a knee problem picked up during pre-season.

Like defender Anthony Gerrard (calf) he played in yesterday’s Professional Development League match at Ipswich after featuring as an over-age player at Crewe Alexandra last week.

Paterson, signed from Burnley the summer before last, scored six times in 26 games for Town last season before a loan move to Bristol City.

There were suggestions the 27-year-old might make his move to the West Country permanent, but he returned to Town saying he wanted to fight his way back into the frame.

Powell, whose side have scored only one goal in his three Championship games at the helm, would like to see 22-times capped Paterson stake a claim.

“Martin is an experienced player who is part of our squad, and like all my players, I want him to work hard and show he deserves a chance,” said Powell.

“He has been out for a while, and he is getting the game time he needs to bet back to where we want him to be. If I can use him, I will.”

Like Oscar Gobern, who is back in training after a toe problem, Gerrard has also been out since pre-season while Powell has Adam Hammill pushing for a recall after a couple of niggles.

The manager is preparing for Saturday’s showdown with Millwall, when Town will aim for their first home win of the season.