Latics fixture in jeopardy

PACKING A PUNCH . . . Athletic captain Reuben Hazell takes a hit from team-mate Chris Taylor at Ricky Hatton’s gym in Hyde.

ATHLETIC are in a race against time to host Saturday’s npower League One clash with Swindon Town.

Weather forecasts for the rest of the week have sparked genuine concern that the Robins will not be bobbing along to Boundary Park.

It would be a perfect time for Paul Dickov’s men to tackle the West Country outfit. They are likely to be jaded after last night’s 3-2 FA Cup defeat to Blue Square Bet Premier side Crawley in a contest that went to extra-time.

Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy said: “We are making frantic efforts to get the game on.

“There is an awful lot of snow on the pitch and the frost is quite deep, so the work starts now.

“We also need to clear ice away from the turnstile entrances and exit areas, because it is not just a case of sorting out the playing surface, we also need to make the ground and surrounding areas safe for supporters.

“The weather forecast seems to have changed. It will be around minus nine tonight. A temperature of four or five degrees was expected tomorrow. Now it is going to be around zero apparently.

“If it doesn’t start getting milder until Friday, the fixture is going to be in the balance.

“We already have two matches to rearrange, with Southampton and Walsall, so we don’t want to fall too far behind.”

Meanwhile, Athletic players have been packing a punch on the field this season so it should perhaps come as no surprise that they ended up at Ricky Hatton’s gym yesterday.

The squad and coaching staff made their way to the complex on Market Street, Hyde, for a workout and sparring sessions, due to the icy snap upsetting their normal training routine.

The Hitman himself couldn’t be there — he was in court fighting former trainer Billy Graham’s claim that he is still owed money from two bouts.

Hatton said: “It was an honour to have Paul Dickov and the lads at the gym.

“Paul is a big friend of mine, who has supported me over the years. He always came along to my fights when he could.

“He is a hero in my eyes for his achievements as a Manchester City player so when I got the call asking if they could use our facilities, I didn’t even hesitate.”


ATHLETIC are appealing for volunteers to help clear snow from the Boundary Park pitch, in a bid to avoid postponing Saturday’s game against Swindon Town.
Chief executive Alan Hardy said: “We need people to come along with their shovels and help with the process. Anyone willing to assist us should call the club on (0161) 6244972.