Woking joint-interim manager Jake Hyde has praised the impact of new striker John Marquis.

Marquis scored two goals on his home league debut for the Cards in their 5-1 win against Altrincham, and Hyde praised Marquis’ impact on and off the pitch at the Laithwaite Community Stadium.

“It’s super important for any centre-forward at any level to get their first goals for a football club,” said Hyde.

“He hasn’t wasted any time. It’s great to have big John off the mark and making himself at home straight from the get-go.

“When opposition players start to worry about him, our other players become free.

“Then, all of a sudden, just John’s presence will bring other boys into play, and they’ll be able to pick up positions and get goals.

“It’s fantastic for big John to get his first couple of goals – he’s deserved it.

“He’s been fantastic since he’s come in the door with us – not only his performances and his work-rate, but his professionalism and his standards. That’s a huge thing.

“He’s dragging boys every day in training with him. Players like that are worth their weight in gold, so you want them to do well.

“The two goals he got is the cherry on the cake from a very strong week.”

Matt Ward scored Woking’s opening goal against Altrincham, and Hyde was delighted with his performance.

“Matt was exceptional,” said Hyde.

“For the past couple of weeks we’ve drummed home to our wide men to make sure they hit the back post when the opposite wide man is crossing the ball.

“Matt did that perfectly for a two-yard tap-in. From that moment, he was unstoppable.

“He’s been absolutely brilliant for us, but if he starts adding those goals he won’t be at this level for very long.”