New faces can inspire

BACKING THE BOSS: Ex-Rochdale manager Steve Eyre believes Athletic can improve

PUNDIT Steve Eyre, who has experienced life at the sharp end as a manager in Sky Bet League One, believes that key additions to the Athletic squad in the New Year can make all the difference when it comes to the team's scoring woes.

Former Rochdale boss Eyre (44) has seen the side in action on a number of occasions this season working as a radio co-commentator.

And he says that with goals an obvious problem for hard-working manager Stephen Robinson, new players who are able to better implement tactical plans are important for creating scoring chances.

"A shortage of goals is obvious," said Eyre, who will be on radio duty watching Athletic at Sheffield United on Boxing Day and Fleetwood on New Year's Eve.

"But equally, there is a shortage of a player who passes the ball from central areas for assists.

"Sometimes, two up front - which supporters often crave - has left Latics short in midfield. yet playing an extra man in midfield has left them short up front.

"Good additions in January could help both systems work better."

Former Manchester City academy coach Eyre sees in Stephen Robinson a manager who has a thirst for coaching and developing players while working with a squad not hardened to the rigours of regular games at this level.

"It has been tough and there is nothing more difficult than being a first-time manager who has had to uproot and who gets a group of players together behind schedule," Eyre added.

"The squad that is in place haven't been consistently selected from August through to Christmas in their careers, barring Peter Clarke.

"I believe they can grow as players and not suffer for this experience.

"The manager has a tireless work ethic and the side has a clean sheet record that is top-half.

"The injury record often goes un-noticed but it is fantastic in comparison to some other clubs. There are other sides who have had a raft of injuries who don't have the spirit that Oldham possess.

"They try to be creative on set plays as well.

"It was always going to be a tough job in a tough division, given the resources they have got.

"Turning defence into attack better should see Latics move up the table in 2017 and the manager has the coaching ability to steer the club to a steady position."

Boxing Day fixtures - Sky Bet League One (3pm unless stated): Southend v AFC Wimbledon (1pm); Bolton v Shrewsbury; Bradford v Scunthorpe; Bristol Rovers v Coventry; Fleetwood v Bury; Millwall v Swindon; MK Dons v Charlton; Oxford v Northampton; Peterborough v Gillingham; Port Vale v Walsall; Rochdale v Chesterfield; Sheffield United v ATHLETIC.