DANNY Wilson admits rejuvenated midfielder Jon-Paul McGovern has given him “food for thought” as he contemplates changes to Town’s playing system in the coming weeks.

With Town using a 4-5-1 formation so far in 2009/10 and not utilising a conventional right-sided midfielder, McGovern, who has been out of favour for much of Wilson’s reign, has moved to the central area.

And the shift in position has not come without success, with the midfielder now allowed to show off his full range of passing and ability to score goals, which he demonstrated with his stunning free kick in the 2-2 draw at Oldham on Saturday.

“You wouldn’t have thought of putting him (McGovern) in the inside position in a two, but in a three it’s worked very well for him,” said Wilson.

“I think it’s suited a number of players to play that way, and as a team I think we’ve had half decent results playing that way.

“Whether we’ll stay like that we’ll wait and see, but what he’s given me is food for thought. I’ve been absolutely delighted with his contribution.”

Many pundits and fans alike expect Wilson, should he sign another front man in the near future, to pair any new acquisition with Billy Paynter and return to four in midfield, meaning McGovern could find his place under threat.

But with Wilson talking up the efforts of the Scot, McGovern can afford to feel optimistic of maintaining his place in the starting line-up.

“He’s formed quite a good relationship with (Jonathan) Douglas, I think they both trust each other with the ball,” said Wilson.

“He’s found a position where he’s offering more to the team. In a wide position he’s not got the pace or the trickery that (Anthony) McNamee or (Alan) O’Brien have got, but I think he’s a very good passer of the ball.

“Inside, from the team’s point of view, he’s proved better when he’s played in there.”

McGovern looks likely to start for Town against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the second round of the League Cup tonight, as County Ground assistant Peter Shirtliff returns to his former club.

Shirtliff, who spent two years as a player at Molineux, said: “The cup is a bonus - if we can go there and put on a good performance, I’ll certainly be delighted.

“I think they will take it seriously. I think they will put a strong side out and it augurs well for a good evening.”