Robbo calls for Latics starlets

Photo: Alan Howarth

ON THE ATTACK . . . defender George Edmundson shows his intent as he pushes forward

GEORGE Edmundson and Athletic's band of young guns will be used to fill the gaps that have been left by Athletic's continuing embargo over signing players.

Edmundson and youth team centre-back Dylan King provide defensive back-up for tonight's Checkatrade Trophy third-round tie at Mansfield Town (7.45pm kick-off).

Cameron Burgess's departure to rivals Bury has left Athletic short in defensive cover tonight and Charles Dunne's pelvic injury means he is also missing.

Though he has made enough appearances to earn an extended deal until at least the end of the season, Dunne won't be able to play against Gillingham on Saturday even if fit - unless the current registration embargo is lifted before that stage, allowing him to re-sign. That appears unlikely.

Athletic are expecting a solidarity payment from the Premier League later this week that should see bills to other clubs paid and the embargo subsequently lifted by early next week.

"We wanted to make another signing before letting Cameron (Burgess) go, but the circumstances dictated we were not able to do that," said manager Stephen Robinson, who also indicated he has other right-sided centre-back options available to him in Brian Wilson and Josh Law.

"It was hard to ask Cameron and Fulham to wait when there were other things in the pipeline.

"We will deal with it and others get their chances.

"It leaves a gap. Even if Charles Dunne is fit, he won't be available for Gillingham Saturday if the embargo still stands. Although his contract has kicked in, he hasn't been able to re-register.

"Marc Klok's contract runs out at the end of this week and yes, it leaves us light on bodies but it gives opportunities to others. There is no point looking for excuses with it.

"George Edmundson comes into the squad, as do Dylan King and Brendy Glackin. Chenedu Uche would have been in but is carrying an injury.

"Tony Philliskirk has done a super job, so let's have a look at the younger boys."

Klok and Lee Erwin are nursing knocks and stay doubtful for tonight's trip.

Athletic (probable, 3-5-2): Ripley; Law, Clarke, Wilson; Dummigan, Banks, Fane, Flynn, Croft; Osei, Mckay. Subs (from): Kettings, Edmundson, King, Reckord, Green, McLaughlin, Klok, Winchester, Erwin, Glackin.