Accrington Stanley’s James Gray is riding on the crest of a wave ahead of AFC Wimbledon’s trip to the Crown Ground on Saturday.

The striker bagged a brace in a 3-2 win over Tranmere Rovers last time out and captained Northern Ireland U21s in midweek.

Gray’s Northern Ireland were beaten 4-1 by Serbia but 22-year-old described was thrilled to wear the armband and named it his career highlight to date.

Key duo: Accrington Stanley's Kal Naismith (second left) and James Gray challenge for possession

Accrington Observer reporter Ben Collins reckons the forward could be the biggest threat to the Dons this weekend.

He said: “James Gray finished last term strongly and was rewarded with the coveted number nine shirt for this season.

“After two years with Stanley he's now grasped what it takes to succeed at this level and throws his weight around up front.

It's there! Accrington Stanley players congratulate Tom Aldred after his goal during the 1-1 draw against Plymouth in March 2014

“He scored twice against Tranmere to make it four goals this season and is on a high having captained Northern Ireland's Under 21s in midweek, describing it the proudest moment of his career.”

Collins is also a big fan of defender Tom Aldred, who in-form Matt Tubbs should have an interesting battle with on Saturday, while also picking out exciting Scottish winger Kal Naismith as Stanley’s third player to watch.

He added: “Tom Aldred won last season's player of the year award after playing every minute of every game. The centre-half is not afraid to put his head where it hurts and despite being linked with a summer move, he has stayed with Stanley.

The gaffer: Accrington manager James Beattie.

“Although the Reds are yet to keep a clean sheet this term, Aldred remains a composing presence and provides leadership from the back.

“Kal Naismith can drift out of the game at times but, as manager James Beattie said after the Bury defeat, he can take teams on almost single-handedly when he's on form.

“That afternoon he curled in the opener, had a delightful lob cleared off the line and hit a post with a 30-yard free-kick.

"The following week he was in the right place at the right time to tap in the winner against Tranmere.           

“Usually deployed on the right wing, he loves to cut inside and let fly with his left foot.”

Stanley have had a poor start to the season and last weekend’s narrow victory over Tranmere was their first of the season. It saw them climb off the foot of the League Two table.

Follow all the build-up, matchday coverage and reaction from AFC Wimbledon’s trip to Accrington Stanley here on GetWestLondon.