Still learning

JAMES Tarkowski has been the subject of much transfer speculation.

LEE Johnson doesn’t think James Tarkowski will be heading out of Boundary Park during this transfer window.

Despite confirming bids for the player, Johnson believes the 21-year-old centre back hasn’t done enough in front of scouts to make a transfer a reality.

“I don’t think it will happen,” said Johnson. “I don’t think he has played well enough for it to happen. That is just me being honest. At key points, where people have been watching him, he has had a bad game where he didn’t need to.

“I am pleased in a way, as I want to keep him – though on the other hand I want him to play well for us all the time. He did well against Wolves until he gave a stupid one away for their second goal.

“He is still young and until he has had 150 games, he’s not experienced enough to know what to do.”

Moves are in the offing to sign players before the deadline, Johnson cofirmed.

“I’m trying to bring one or two in,” he added. “Whether we will is another story, but we are certainly talking to a couple. One is a development player but could have an impact this season.”

As for last night’s contest, Johnson conceded Athletic’s hard work wasn’t enough to outgun their skilled opponents.

“I didn’t think it was a 3-0 game. We were well in it and chances were probably equal,” the manager said. “The difference was they were clinical and we weren’t.

“They are a massive side in this division, with a massive budget. The lads played with desire and tempo and quality. If we are more clinical we will be fine.”