Selection dilemma could be on the cards for Banide

Athletic boss Laurent Banide is not frightened of making any 'tough' selection decisions ahead of Saturday's Sky Bet League Two trip to Cambridge United.

With Christopher Missilou and Mohamed Mauoche now back in contention having missed the midweek draw with Exeter due to injury, it means Athletic now have a fully fit squad available.

Competition for a starting spot at Cambridge will be fierce amongst the squad as Banide's outfit will look to build on an encouraging performance during Tuesday's 0-0 draw at Boundary Park.

Banide said: “Christopher and Mohamed are feeling well again now.

“It's important for the group to have everyone available.

“There are possibilities for all the players this weekend, and it's my job to make tough decisions.

“It's important to analyse every player, because there is still a lot of progress to be made.

“There's not enough confidence on the ball, or moving the ball and defending. We're giving people too much space.

“We cannot stop improving, though. We need to continue that, we need that challenge.

“Of course Cambridge are a team of potential, but it's about focusing on our team. We still need to find solutions.”

Cambridge, under boss Colin Calderwood, have started their league campaign impressively.

They remain unbeaten in four games, and have won their last two.

Meanwhile, Boundary Park flung open its doors this morning (Thursday) to welcome fans as an open training session took place on the pitch.

The weather failed to dampen spirits of the mostly young onlookers, some of whom were allowed on the field towards the end of the session to have a kickabout with the first team.

“It's important for the young supporters to see the players,” said Banide.

“It's a very good situation, in fact it's fantastic.

“We all need to dream. Why not?

“One day these children could be playing on the pitch again for the Oldham first team.”

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