Chesterfield: Dennis is a menace, says Spireites chief

Dennis scored twice midweek as Chesterfield ran out comfortable 3-1 winners at Derbyshire neighbours Matlock Town in the latest of their pre-season friendlies.

And Spireites first team coach Morgan, formerly of Sheffield United, praised the performance of the 26-year-old, who arrived at the Proact Stadium on a free transfer in May.

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“Dennis’ movement is excellent and I think he has got a real good habit of scoring goals,” said Morgan.

“Let’s face it, as a centre forward, that is a good habit to have.

“It was funny, when he scored the second goal, the gaffer (Danny Wilson) said to me he’s hardly had a touch all half, yet he’s scored two goals.”

And Morgan added: “Kristian is working hard, he is trying to impress - the same as Rai Simons - and I thought they were a handful for the Matlock defenders.”

Dennis has been handed shirt number 20 for the forthcoming campaign as the club released their squad numbers, with little over two weeks before the big kick-off.

Among the changes for the 2016/17 Sky Bet League One season, ex-Sheffield United man Ched Evans will wear number nine and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake taking number ten. Evans, who signed a one-year deal in June, despite facing an October retrial over rape allegations, is still waiting to make his first Spireites appearance, having failed to shrug off a knee problem.

Jay O’Shea, in tribute to both his daughter’s birth date and in memory of a friend who passed away, will now wear number 26.

While number 14 will again remain unused this season as a tribute to former Spireites striker Jack Lester.