New Athletic captures target a flying start

Athletic's summer signing Andy Taylor with club owner Abdallah Lemsagam

A flying start to the new season would be just the tonic Athletic need, so says experienced defender Andy Taylor.

Frankie Bunn's new-look squad are now just days away from beginning their League Two campaign at home against MK Dons, a team who were also relegated from League One in May.

Taylor, who arrived at Boundary Park last month after spending the previous two seasons at Blackpool, reckons the clash against the Dons is one for fans of both teams to relish. 

Taylor told the Chronicle: “They’re in a similar position to us of course, having come down, and they’ll be looking to bounce straight back as well.

“We’re excited about the game, though.

“Pre-season is never the most enjoyable time for a footballer - it’s hard work – but we are all building towards this game and we can’t wait for it to come around.

“We’ll try and stamp down how we want to play and how we want to do things, but it’s all about starting the season well and then kicking on."

Another new Athletic capture, striker Sam Surridge, is also looking forward to making a big impact, having been given the opportunity to shine at Boundary Park.

The 20-year-old hit-man signed a one-year loan deal from AFC Bournemouth earlier this week.

Surridge said: "I like to put myself about and work hard.

“I score goals, that’s what I want to do and that’s what I’m here for.

“I want to score as many as I can and get us promoted.

“The gaffer has said he wants to develop me and with him being an ex-striker that was one of the main reasons I’m here, he can show me a few things.”

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