It's time for Klok to tick

PIVOTAL ROLE . . . Marc Klok (left) is capable of making a big impact against walsall tomorrow

ATHLETIC have been told to take no prisoners against Walsall, with Marc Klok cast as the lead enforcer.

A high-tempo approach that gets in the opposition's faces is being sought right from kick-off by manager Stephen Robinson as he goes in search of the club's first points in Sky Bet League One.

Walsall made the play-offs with some slick football last term.

But Robinson says the 2-1 win against Wigan shows his men are willing and able to combat that particular style.

"They do try and play and they have players who can dictate," said Robinson, who hopes to get a last-minute green light to add the Premier League striker currently training with the club on loan before tomorrow's game.

"It's up to us to try and make the game as competitive as it was against Wigan right from the first minute.

"We got into Wigan's style of play to upset their rhythm and then started to dominate.

"But you can't do it the other way around. We have to win that physical battle and be as aggressive as we were against Wigan to set the tone early on."

Set-piece supremo Klok appeared to rile Wigan with his high-octane approach - one that has already made him a favourite among supporters.

"Marc is a brilliant character and his enthusiasm is infectious," said Robinson, who felt Ollie Banks was unfortunate to be dropped in midweek.

"He's competitive and that is what we want."

Klok's set-plays caused Wigan problems and it's an area Robinson feels can be profitable.

"I don't think we knew Marc had a good set-piece in him until he started taking a few in training one day," the manager said. "I feel set-plays will be strong for us."

Jamie Reckord returns after concussion and Billy Mckay is back in the mix after being ineligible to feature against parent club Wigan.

TOMORROW is Athletic's 'Jimmy Frizzell Day' in memory of the legendary former player and manager who died recently. The club and Trust Oldham ask fans to turn up wearing any retro shirts they have in memory of one of the most iconic figures in Athletic's history.

ATHLETIC'S EFL Cup second-round tie at Preston will be played on Tuesday, August 23 (7.45pm).

Admission prices are £10 adults and £1 (u-16s) and fans can pay on the night.

Athletic (probable, 4-5-1): Ripley; Law, Clarke, Burgess, Reckord; Croft, Klok, Fane, Green, Flynn; Erwin. Subs (from): Kettings, Wilson, Brown, Edmundson, Winchester, Woodland, Banks, McLaughlin, Cassidy, Osei, Mckay.