Bunn preparing for 'feisty' clash against the Silkmen

Athletic manager Frankie Bunn is preparing for another tough test tomorrow (Saturday) as the third game of the Sky Bet League Two sees a home fixture against Macclesfield Town.

The Silkmen roared to the National League title last season, though they have begun this campaign with back-to-back defeats.

Athletic have fared little better, as they have lost to MK Dons and drawn at Forest Green in their opening two league fixtures.

“There's no straight forward games in this division," acknowledged Bunn.

"They have momentum in terms of they’ve had a successful campaign last year and we’ve got to be prepared for it.

“They’ll be well organised, set plays will be part of their armoury and it'll be a local derby, so it'll be quite a feisty game.”

Athletic could have a few names back in the squad with several players stepping up their recoveries, and Bunn is welcoming a healthy competition for places.

The Athlrtic boss added: “The experienced lads have got a job on their hands to get back into the team because the younger lads have been great so it's a good dilemma to have.

“We've now got people fighting for places and the bench will certainly look a lot stronger than in previous weeks.

"It's nice to have more bodies getting back to full fitness.”

Meanwhile, new Athletic loan capture from Wigan, Callum Lang, has revealed that he is raring to go ahead of the Macclesfield game.

Whether the forward is thrown straight into the starting XI remains to be seen of course, but Lang is bursting with confidence and hopes to build last season's successful loan spell at Morecambe, when he scored 10 goals.

“I enjoyed my time massively at Morecambe," said Lang.

"It was a great learning experience for me, but I definitely want to kick on now for Oldham.

“I've worked hard over pre-season and I'm ready to play straight away and work.

“I'm a hard-working player and hopefully I can show that to the fans.”

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.