Unfinished business

CONFIDENCE . . . John Sheridan believes he can repair the damage.

NEW Athletic manager John Sheridan says he has unfinished business to attend to as he bids to pull the club out of the relegation mire.

Taking training for the first time this morning, the man previously in charge seven years ago spoke of his deep affinity for Athletic after leaving Newport County in favour of a fresh start.

With the club stationed in 22nd spot in Sky Bet League One and without a league win since mid-November, Sheridan’s first game back in charge is at Bradford on Saturday.

“Everyone knows how much I love the club. I was here a long time as a player and a manager, so I am really excited to come back and get the opportunity to manage them again,” said Sheridan, who made 164 appearances in a stellar period as a veteran player with Athletic before a three-year stint as permanent manager.

“I feel I have got a bit of unfinished business from last time. And I am looking forward to the challenge.

“I know the club inside out. There are some great people here and I know what it means to the fans.

“They know what I am all about and I know what they are after.

“Hopefully, I can deliver for them.”

The switch has left Newport County unhappy. A statement issued by the club last night said: “We are disappointed with the way that Oldham Athletic have conducted themselves during this process and are considering our position.”

Before an official approach was approved by the South Wales outfit, Sheridan was photographed with Athletic chairman Simon Corney and fellow director Anthony Gee in a supermarket cafe.

Now, though, Sheridan’s focus is on a player shopping trip — and ‘Shez’ says that his experience in saving Plymouth from dropping into non-league shows the effect that new players can bring.

“I would like to strengthen,” Sheridan said, after completing a move that has been well-received by fans. “It is important I bring one or two in to give us that lift.

“The team is in a vulnerable position, but one of my strengths is getting teams who are struggling out of the position they are in.

“They have got some good players here and have been playing alright football.

“It is all about winning matches. It is a good challenge and I am expecting us to get the results we are after and climb the table.”

Sheridan held a morning meeting with his players before taking to the training field.