Athletic are 'looking good'

Athletic manager Frankie Bunn when he was unveiled last month

Recently-appointed Athletic manager Frankie Bunn is clearly optimistic ahead of the new Sky Bet League Two campaign.

Athletic's relegation from League One on the final day of last term led to plenty of soul-searching for a spell - and the departure of former boss Richie Wellens - but a month into pre-season training and Bunn's new-look squad are offering plenty of encouragement to Boundary Park fans.

Athletic remain unbeaten in their warm-up ficture schedule following the midweek win against La Liga side Girona, and ahead of tomorrow's (Saturday, 3pm) final friendly match against Preston at Boundary Park, Bunn is feeling positive.

“We haven’t started yet in terms of our league fixtures, but the signs are looking good,” the Athletic boss said.

“The spirit means a lot to us because we’re going to have to stick together this forthcoming season.

“We’re making small steps to where we want to be ultimately, we’re not quite there yet but hopefully come the fourth of August we’ll be ready to go.

“We’re learning about this side everyday in training and everyday in and around the ground socially with them.

"I think things are improving, we have seen a difference and we’ve just got to keep that momentum going now.”

Athletic open their League Two campaign - the first at fourth tier level since 1971 - at home against MK Dons on Saturday week.

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