TV cash tonic for Latics

Athletic are waiting for an update from Leeds United on injury victim Aidan White

ATHLETIC have received a much-needed cash boost following Sky’s decision to screen Tranmere’s visit to Boundary Park.

The npower League One clash has been shifted to Monday, March 28 (7.45pm kick-off).

Athletic take £30,000 from the deal, the importance of which cannot be underestimated after being financially-hamstrung by the FA Cup exit at the hands of Accrington Stanley earlier in the season.

Chief executive Alan Hardy said: “The Sky money helps. Even though we expect the attendance to fall because fans will be able to watch the match on television, it still benefits us without a doubt.

“It is a big boost for the club and we are pleased the deal has been agreed.”

The visit of Les Parry’s men had originally been moved from Saturday, March 26 to the following day, as Athletic officials wanted to avoid a clash with the Wales v England Euro 2012 qualifier, which kicked off at the same time.

But the income generated by the Sky deal made the Monday night slot a much more appealing option.

Meanwhile, Hardy was due to contact Leeds United officials today for an update on Aidan White’s ankle injury.

The winger is expected to rejoin Paul Dickov’s squad on loan once the problem has cleared up.

Dickov had hoped to watch three trialists in action for Athletic’s reserves against Bury at Radcliffe Borough last night, but the match was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

With reserve team matches coming thick and fast, it could be several months before the fixture takes place.

Hardy added: “It is a shame the game could not go ahead, because the manager was keen to take a closer look at the trialists.”

Former Charlton Athletic right-back Yassin Mout-aouakil, AFC Wimbledon left-sided player Andre Blackman, and an unnamed player were all hoping to make a good impression on the Scot.

The same applied to Northern Ireland international Warren Feeney, who made his first appearance for the first team since November in midweek, when he came on during the defeat to Southampton.

Striker Dean Kelly and utility man Jason Jarrett were also due to feature.

The pair are fighting for their fututres at Boundary Park, with their six-month contracts running out at the end of this month.