Tough test awaits as high-flying Wrexham roll into town

David Unsworth's testing start to life at Latics manager continues tomorrow when big-spending National League high-flyers Wrexham roll into town.

Boundary Park will be packed as Unsworth is set to be introduced to the Latics faithful for the first time since he took over from John Sheridan.

Unsworth's first game in charge was a humbling 3-0 defeat at Bromley last weekend.

Hollywood-owned Wrexham will arguably present a much tougher test test tomorrow.

While Latics currently languish in 15th place in the table having lost three of their last four matches, Wrexham, under experienced boss Phil Parkinson, are just a point behind leaders Chesterfield, having won seven of their 10 league games so far.

Their only defeat this term came at Chesterfield in mid-August, while last time out they thumped Torquay 6-0.

“I learnt a lot last Saturday," said Latics boss Unsworth.

"I’d rather not say exactly what, I’d rather keep that to myself.

“I want to leave what’s in the past in the past.

“I’m here to help them, to make the team better, and I still firmly believe that when we get on a run we’ll be hard to stop."

Unsworth has been busy behind the scenes too.

As well as reportedly having a bid accepted for an as-yet unnamed player today, the club announced this morning (Friday) that Louis Dean has been appointed to the position of Academy Director.

Dean, who has occupied the role of Youth Team manager since February, will now oversee the whole of the academy structure as a new strategical framework for player development is implemented.

A former academy coach at Charlton Athletic and Chelsea, Dean will continue to be in charge of the Under-19s team, as well as taking responsibility for a new coaching philosophy and curriculum across all age groups in the youth and foundation phases at the club.

Meanwhile, an arrest has been made in connection with the alleged assault by an opposition player on Latics striker Hallam Hope.

The 28-year-old suffered what the club described as "serious injuries" after being attacked on the staff car park following the home game with Chesterfield on September 3.

The suspect has since been released under investigation

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