Robbo's blast at packed schedule

STEPHEN ROBINSON . . . the Athletic boss will see his side play eight competitive games in August

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ATHLETIC expect to face big, aggressive opposition at Bury tomorrow amid a packed fixture schedule which has been slammed by boss Stephen Robinson.

A tough opening run of games has seen Athletic so far face last season's play-off finalists (Millwall), the runaway League One champions (Wigan), a play-off semi-finalist (Walsall) and a side now 27 games unbeaten (Northampton).

And tomorrow's clash at Gigg Lane is a fifth in the opening 15 days of the season - a huge challenge for a brand new squad and management team.

Three more games are still to follow in a hectic August.

The silver lining for Athletic's manager is that it affords plenty of time to closely examine the performances of several young players, with the fruits of that process already on show.

"It is ridiculous to be honest. They have banged in loads of games when people are still trying to get their match sharpness together," said Robinson.

"But it is what it is and we will cope with it while we are still getting the team organised.

ANALYSIS

"We are very methodical with our analysis and study each game to try to correct any mistakes we have made.

"You can see the clear improvement in some players, such as Cameron Burgess who was excellent against Northampton.

"The likes of Darius Osei and Ousmane Fane who have come in from non-league will keep getting better as we look at the footage to pinpoint those areas to focus on."

Athletic are primed to expect a direct approach from the Shakers tomorrow, with the same energy expended against Northampton on Tuesday night fully expected.

Lee Erwin had a short spell on loan at Bury last season, only starting one game on the wing, while Peter Clarke returns to the club at which he is the current player of the year.

"Bury are a big, strong side," added Robinson. "They are aggressive and they play off second balls.

"We have done our homework on them and if we can match their desire and energy then we believe we have the ability to win.

"They are strong and benefit from a big budget, with experienced players in there.

"But we go there tomorrow with no fears.

"Lee Erwin didn't have the best time on loan there last year and he will want to do well.

"I don't think anything will faze Peter Clarke. He epitomises everything we are about.

"I am sure he will especially enjoy it if we win."

Athletic are still waiting on the move for their primary striker target. Also being chased by other clubs, Athletic are in pole position to land him but are waiting on other moves to take place before he is allowed to depart on loan.

The registration deadline is at noon today.

Athletic (probably, 4-4-2): Ripley; Law, Clarke, Burgess, Reckord; Klok, Fane, Green, Flynn; Erwin, Mckay. Subs (from): Kettings, Wilson, Dunne, Edmundson, Banks, Croft, Woodland, Osei.

ATHLETIC fans are reminded that there are NO tickets for sale at Bury on the day of the game.

All tickets for the Gigg Lane clash must be purchased from Athletic's ticket office before the deadline of 3pm today.