Darren Freeman believes Sam Gargan can play a big part in Whitehawk’s final push for promotion.

The former Albion striker scored on his first start since November as Hawks maintained top spot in Ryman premier with a 2-0 win at Hastings United on Easter Monday.

Gargan was in hot form until suffering a knee injury against Bury Town on November 3 and, since recovering from that in January, manager Freeman has had issues with the player’s fitness.

The 24-year-old has been unhappy sitting on the bench but grabbed his chance in style at the Pilot Field and Freeman wants him to continue having an impact on the season.

Freeman said: “I thought he was outstanding on Monday. I gave him a target to get his weight down which he has done and he has worked hard.

“He told me he was fit and ready to play and I didn’t think he was ready. On Monday, he went out and proved me wrong and I don’t mind that as a manager, it is good.

“He stuck his two fingers up at me and he did it the right way so credit to Sam.

“If Sam Gargan is on fire, there is not a better centre forward in this league. Other teams go on about their injuries. We lost our main striker, in fact we lost two with Scott McGleish. We have just been quiet and got on with things.

“Before Sam got injured he was probably playing the best I have seen him play. It was a massive shame for us and for Sam that he got injured and you don’t realise how good he really is until he is not playing.

“It is a massive bonus for Sam to get back. The boys have done Sam proud while he has been getting himself fit. Now it is down to Sam to do his bit for the team and for the club.”

Whitehawk’s challenge for a third promotion in four years continues today when the leaders visit Kingstonian.