No one is guaranteed a place, warns Sheridan

ATHLETIC boss John Sheridan has told his players not to be complacent as the new season approaches fast

JOHN Sheridan has warned his players that nobody can take their place in the team for granted.

As the hunt for a new first-choice goalkeeper and central midfielder intensifies ahead of tomorrow night's home friendly with Girona (7pm kick-off), supporters can expect to glean a few more clues as to the likely line-up come the start of the new season.

SCORED

Courtney Duffus and Craig Davies both scored against Accrington, while fellow striker Aaron Amadi-Holloway had two goals in as many games before the visit to the Wham Stadium.

Sheridan has plenty to ponder both in terms of his striker picks and an overall formation. The Athletic boss has said already this summer that given the current personnel, he wants to operate with three central midfielders, but at Accrington the side was set up in a straight 4-4-2.

With only two matches left before the season opener at home to Oxford on Saturday week - Manchester United's reserves pay a visit to SportsDirect.com Park on Tuesday, August 1 - it is approaching crunch time for players to put forward their case for inclusion.

"I have told the players, I hope nobody thinks they are guaranteed a place in the side as that just won't happen with me," Sheridan said.

"There might be one or two surprises. It all depends who I feel is on their game and who is looking sharp.

"I have to make sure I pick the right team for the first game and that is all I am looking towards.

"EXPECT"

"I expect Girona to be a good team, possession wise, and that they will get us moving around. It will be a tough and good game and an experience playing against Spanish opposition.

"Players will get more minutes and in these last two weeks I have to look at what formation and team I want to play."

Dan Gardner (knee), Darius Osei (hamstring), Paul Green (Achilles) and Brian Wilson (Achilles) are all carrying knocks.

ATHLETIC will open the North Stand and George Hill Main Stand for tomorrow night's home match with Girona (7pm kick-off) for supporters.

The Jimmy Frizzell Stand will be available for wheelchair users only.

Admission prices have been set at £10 adults, £5 concessions and £1 under-12s.