Manager’s tribute to defender Lockwood

Adam Lockwood has been a tower of strength at the heart of the Athletic defence alongside James Wilson.

MANAGER Lee Johnson has hailed the impact made by Adam Lockwood following the defensive powerhouse’s decision to sign for another season.

Thirty three-year-old Lockwood’s one-year contract extension was triggered once the centre-back had made 13 starts during the second half of last season. Lockwood joined Athletic at the turn of the year after spending the early season with Conference North outfit Guiseley.

His Boundary Park debut came in a 3-0 defeat against eventual division champions Wolves, but the big man soon became a regular in the team. Lockwood ended 2013-14 on 20 appearances and two goals.

Johnson – a former team-mate of Lockwood’s at Yeovil – said: “It was great to see Adam come back from an horrendous injury at the beginning of last season.

“I think he showed his worth by going to Guiseley. He got fit then he had to adjust to life in League One again, and in the end he has had a great season.

“I always had confidence in Adam. He has proved throughout his career that he’s a good lad so I’m delighted he has signed for another season. He forged a great central defensive partnership with James Wilson – they really complement each other.”

Lockwood had no hesitation in sticking with a club where he feels valued: “I’ve been really happy at Oldham so I didn’t really think twice.

“When you get a bit older it is very important that you’re happy at a club. I’ve always felt valued here by the staff and that goes a long way when you’re deciding whether to stay.”



Johnson has offered a mixed update on contract offers to Player of the Year James Wesolowski, ’keeper Paul Rachubka and full-back Connor Brown. Brown looks most likely to be staying.

The Athletic boss said: “I’ve definitely got high hopes Connor will stick with us, and I think that would be best for the lad. We’ve still got an important role to play in his development.

“The situation with Paul is 50-50, I would say, but unfortunately with James it looks less and less likely that he’ll sign.”