Latics target at least NINE new players

JAMIE RECKORD . . . the defender has a point to prove, according to manager Stephen Robinson

ATHLETIC are looking to sign at least NINE more players in order to complete new boss Stephen Robinson's new-look squad.

Former Wolves full-back Jamie Reckord and ex-Bolton midfield man Luke Woodland have taken to five the new contingent brought in since Robinson was formally appointed at the weekend.

Goalkeeper Chris Kettings, who has been on the books at Crystal Palace, is expected to add to that number soon and the hope is that a defender from a Championship club could soon be added to a squad that is envisaged to ideally total up to 24 players.

Robinson also stressed that his younger professionals would play a full part within a senior squad which will see selections made purely on performances.

"We have the two young centre-backs, Jay Stott and George Edmundson, who have impressed me straight away," the manager said.

"We also have Danny Byrnes, Kallum Mantack and Lee Knight.

"They are learning their trade and may not be straight into the first team, though Edmundson has had a little bit of experience already.

"I would like a squad of 23 or 24 players. I don't want a massive squad. Within that, we have the younger kids who have aspirations to get in the first team, but who want to learn.

"I don't want players who are unhappy and moping around. We want an environment where if you play well, you are in the team and you know if you get your chance and take it, you stay in."

RANKS

Kettings, a goalkeeper brought up in the youth team ranks at Manchester City and who has more recently been at Crystal Palace, is expected to be added to the squad soon.

Robinson says new men Reckord (24) and Woodland (20), who played six times for Athletic on loan from Bolton in 2014-15, fit the profile he is looking for.

"I came across Jamie at Ross County," he added. "He started at Wolves and wanted to come back to England. He is quick and strong and has played a lot of league games. He has a point to prove and that's the type of player we want here.

"He is proven at a similar level in the SPL and is not an unknown.

"Luke Woodland has been in for a week on trial and his hunger, desire and attitude has caught my eye. We have offered him a carrot of a short-term contract and said to him, 'show us what you have got'.

"He is a big athletic boy and did well here last time. We spoke to people at Bolton who said it was an absolute no-brainer."

Meanwhile, former Athletic man Timothee Dieng appears set to remain on trial at Bradford, having impressed in a friendly run-out at Guiseley at the weekend.

ATHLETIC will face Manchester United in the semi-finals of the Lancashire FA Senior Cup on Tuesday, August 2 (7pm kick-off).

The game takes place at Leigh Sports Village and admission is free.

Athletic will use the fixture to hand manager Robinson a final look at his squad before the big kick-off at Millwall four days later.