Curle tells Korboa to be more 'selfish' after praising his standout display on league debut

Keith Curle wants Ricky Korboa to be more 'selfish' when he has the ball at his feet in the future after praising his new signing's impressive display against AFC Wimbledon on Saturday.

The 23-year-old was making his first ever league appearance after stepping up from seventh tier Carshalton Athletic earlier this summer as Northampton hosted Dons in their opening League One fixture of the season.

And it was a hugely promising performance from Korboa, who capped an excellent outing with a well-taken goal on 32 minutes that ultimately earned the Cobblers a point.

"I was really happy with his performance and he's another player that we think we can develop and he can become an asset for the football club," said Curle.

"There's an element of buy-in from the player because it's a big jump for him but he's got good attributes and if we're able to use them and put him into a working environment, the lad has got ability.

"He's a technician and he's got good ball mastery, and he's also got the hunger and desire to achieve and perform."

However, whilst Korboa was rightly named man of the match for his performance on Saturday, there are still areas that, according to Curle, he can and will improve.

"With his natural ability, he will score goals and he will scare defenders because of his dynamics and his willingness," he added. "But there are still times that, when he has an opportunity to run at teams, I don't want him to let them off the hook.

"Expose defenders and make them make the tackle. You only need somebody to make the wrong decision with a mistimed tackle or a fortunate bobble and you'll find yourself in on goal - don't take the easy option of looking for a pass.

"I'll back him and that's what we've said to him when he enters the attacking third - be selfish, go and take people on and go and show people what you're about."

There was one incident during Saturday's game n particular that Curle wanted Korboa to run at his man instead of playing the pass.

"Some of his decision-making can be better," he continued. "There was a moment near me on the touchline when he's turned his man and he's tried sliding the ball through and I'm there saying 'go on, run at them' because defenders don't want someone of Ricky's pace and ability to run them.

"Don't let the ball go loose - I want him causing defenders problems. But that's something that he will develop and improve, not only individually but also collectively."