Fear as targets may go elsewhere

Anthony Gerrard

DEFENDER Anthony Gerrard and forward Aaron Amadi-Holloway have been lined up to sign for Athletic, the latter on loan from Fleetwood, but boss Stephen Robinson admits the possibility exists at this stage that they could be snapped up by other clubs.

Both men played huge roles in helping Athletic stave off relegation from Sky Bet League One last season under then manager John Sheridan.

Robinson said: "We have spoken to lots of players and have various plans.

"Oldham are not the only club after these players and while it's a worry, we feel we will get the players we want.

"In an ideal world they would have been all in for Port Vale. It gives everyone a lift, including fans who have been very patient with a team not scoring goals."

Looking beyond tonight's game at Mansfield, Robinson hinted that some of the current loan players - Lee Erwin (Leeds) and Billy Mckay (Wigan) being possibilities - could have their deals cut short to increase wriggle-room in the budget.

"I am led to believe the embargo will be cleared by next week, with money coming in from the Football League," said Robinson, in reference to a payment that is scheduled to be distributed to clubs at this stage of the season.

"We can clear that then by Monday try to crack on with things.

"We have spoken to a lot of players and done a lot of groundwork. It's not an ideal situation that we haven't been able to press the button on things.

"But there is no point making excuses. We have to deal with it and when we get the green light, see if people are still available.

"We have spoken to another couple of clubs about players maybe going back.

"We are trying to generate our own money so if and when I get the ok, we will do our best to get the people we want in."

Robinson added that he was unaware of any bids from rival clubs for current players.