Athletic fans flock to open training session

Athletic gave fans the chance to see the new-look squad strut their stuff at their Open Day today (Tuesday).

Fans flocked to the pitch-side at Boundary Park to watch a live training session ahead of the new season – the perfect preparation for Saturday's home League Two clash against MK Dons.

Supporters cheered through the highs of the session, and afterwards had the opportunity to meet their favourite players and get kitted out at the club shop.

The day was also an opportunity for the club to get fans excited by showcasing some of their new talent.

Yesterday it was confirmed that manager Frankie Bunn had signed striker Sam Surridge on a season-long loan from Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.

The 20-year-old has experience in League Two following his loan stay at Yeovil Town last season, and said he was excited to get out on the Boundary Park pitch and start scoring.

Boss Bunn is delighted to have secured Surridge's services.

Bunn said: “There were some League One clubs interested in him so we’ve had to work hard to get him here.

“Thankfully he’s come and now we just need him to go and have a good season and do what he does well.”

Joining him will be experienced striker Chris O’Grady, who is welcomed back to the Athletic fold after 10 years.

He has played at every level of the English Football League and is now signed on a one-year contract after a trial period.

Bunn stated he hopes that the 32-year-old’s knowledge will benefit the younger players.

The Athletic boss said: “Chris has experienced Premier League, he’s done the works. He’s had some good clubs.

“Yes, he’s coming to the latter stages of his career but we’re hoping that he’ll pass on his knowledge and know-how to the younger players.”

The sun was out over Boundary Park as Bunn put together his final preparations, and O’Grady was clear about the side’s aims for the new campaign.

He said: “To get promotion; start well, get wins, get promoted from League Two, and just build on the progress we’ve been making in pre-season.”

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