Model pro Matteo’s a shining example

Carl Winchester

Mansfield 1 Latics 4


TIME is ticking down on Matteo Lanzoni’s contract with Athletic — but manager Lee Johnson is determined to retain the services of an inspirational professional.

A model in appearance and in his attitude, former Sampdoria and Foggia defender Lanzoni (25) celebrated his second goal for the club at Mansfield in front of the visiting fans his delightful Twitter feed so often pays tribute to.

As part of the second-half line-up which turned fortunes around in the FA Cup tie at Field Mill, Lanzoni is in line to start at right-back for tomorrow’s home Sky Bet League One clash against Colchester.

The chances of him remaining an Athletic player beyond the expiry of his short-term deal at the end of the year depend on forthcoming talks.

Johnson isn’t shy of talking up the Italian: “I have always wanted to keep Matteo, but a lot goes into it,” said Athletic’s manager, who also has similar talks lined up with second-in-command goalkeeper Paul Rachubka.

“The poor kid has been in a room in the 247 Hotel on his own, without driving, since being here.

“It is a lovely hotel and they are great people there, but it is not easy.

“Lanzoni is one of the most dedicated professionals I have ever seen. He walks round with a stopwatch and clocks everything. There’s no fluke to it: he works very hard at what he is trying to do, and I respect that a lot.

“I want to keep him, but I also want the best for him so we have to decide what that is.”

Another fringe player to impress in the 4-1 Mansfield win on Tuesday, and indeed the Brentford loss three days earlier, was Carl Winchester.

With James Wesolowski injured, the full Northern Ireland international is primed to be included from the start tomorrow and Johnson wants him to finally grab his chance.

“I had a good chat with Carl a couple of weeks ago. It is a massive time for him now, and Anton Rodgers too.”