Latics target third swoop

SIGN HERE . . . Athletic new George Green.

ATHLETIC boss Darren Kelly is hoping to add to his attacking options possibly as early as tomorrow after tying up a deal for former Everton whizz-kid George Green.

Green (19) has signed a two-year deal with Oldham - the second capture of a forward-minded player

following Lee Croft’s signing earlier this month.

Dewbury-born Green arrives at Athletic on the recommendation of a former club legend.

The hot teenage prospect said: “Joe Royle at Everton pushed me towards Oldham because of his relationship with the club. I managed to secure the move and I’m delighted to be here. The manager has a good footballing philosophy.”

Fans will get their first glimpse of the new boys, plus returning winger Croft, at Chester on Saturday, July 11. That is the day before the squad sets off for a week-long training camp in Stirling, with a private game in midweek before a friendly with Stirling Albion on July 17.

Kelly sees the trip as a useful exercise both for the players and his staff, assistant Dean Holden and Jim Harvey.

“The players know Dean and he knows the players, but this is a chance for me and Jim to get to know the players and them us,” Kelly said. “Ultimately it is a chance to get away from here to tremendous facilities with pristine pitches. “We get away for a week and will work very hard ahead of the season.

“It is also a chance to bond, to get togetherness going, so the new players fit in and everyone pulls in the right direction. It’s ideal for what we want to do.”

Holden was due to return today from a visit to the Czech Republic, where he has continued to work towards his UEFA Pro Licence qualification.

twitter: @Matt_Chambers_