Stam to leave in Latics purge

Stefan Stam (right): Not offered a new deal by Athletic.

STEFAN STAM has become the eighth player to be released by Athletic, who will parade a new-look team next season.

The Dutch defender’s agent was informed yesterday by manager Dave Penney that he is not to be offered a new deal.

The 29-year-old Stam, who is back home in Holland, is, however, set to return to England, having already receiving several offers.

Stam made 102 appearances for Athletic and chief Athletic Alan Hardy paid tribute to the player.

“The decision to release Stefan was for footballing reasons and, in the four years he has been with us, he has been a model professional,” explained Mr Hardy.

Stam joins Josh Bell, Mark Crossley, Sean Gregan, Lee Hughes, Jean-Paul Kalala, Andy Liddell and Kevin Maher who have also been released.

Athletic are confident Mark Allott will accept the offer of a new one-year contract.

The 31-year-old midfield player has been informed by Penney he must give a decision by today and Allott was due to meet club officials to give his answer.

Athletic are still in discussions with Martin Gray and Andy Collett, who are expected to join Penney’s management team.

Gray is earmarked to become Penney’s No 2 and Collett the goalkeeping coach.

“We are still in discussions and working on the fine details. I would think it will be concluded next week,” added Mr Hardy.

Athletic were privately pleased after Leeds United were last night beaten by Millwall in the Coca-Cola League One play-offs.

They will be guaranteed one extra bumper gate as Leeds attracted the second largest home crowd of the campaign just ended. The attendance was 7,835, even though the match was televised live.

Athletic’s offices will be open tomorrow between 9am and noon for anybody wanting to purchase season tickets. Fans have until May 28 to take advantage of discounts.