GARY Alexander's unhappy spell at West Ham United may prove a blessing for Town as they look to make FA Cup progress.

He will be hoping for a place in the starting eleven against Gateshead after a performance at Northampton which allowed Town to "defend from the front" in the words of his manager.

The 21-year-old arrived at the County Ground in the summer after failing to win a regular place at Upton Park. His path to the first team was blocked by the likes of Davor Suker and Paulo Di Canio.

Harry Redknapp had allowed his young striker to gain valuable experience at Third Division Exeter City during the 1999/2000 campaign.

It was there that he played as a lone striker a fact not lost on Andy King. Alexander was the obvious choice to lead King's new 4-5-1 formation.

The young forward cut an impressive figure as he tormented the home defenders at Sixfields Stadium and will be hoping for a repeat performance against Gateshead tomorrow.

During his spell at the Devon club, Alexander blasted 19 goals in 32 games as Exeter struggled to retain their Football League status.

"I thought Gary Alexander excelled himself during the game at Northampton. His performance as a lone striker was exceptional for a youngster," said the Town boss.

His impressive record at Exeter attracted the attention of former Town boss Colin Todd who secured Alexander's signature for £300,000.

King, then Todd's assistant, said: "People in the game have had nothing but good things to say about the boy."

King said he hoped the praise would act as a further confidence booster for the striker.

"He had a very good spell there at Exeter and his endeavour upfront against Northampton was a shining light and a spark for the rest to react to," said King.

Unfortunately, the player has not really found his form in a Town shirt, and he has been in and out of the side.

His goal at Northampton was only his second for the club, following his strike against Wigan in September.

Alexander himself is delighted to be back in the starting line-up after several weeks on the bench, but modestly praised other's efforts.

"I thought the midfielders against Northampton did very well and with Danny Invincible's pace, he's going to be a threat to any side so you know if you flick a ball on, he's got a chance of getting it," said Alexander. "It's good to be back in the side and scoring goals."