Kelly feels right at home

Latics in training on pre season tour at Stirling University

MATTHEW CHAMBERS’ TOUR DIARY


“THE weather makes it feel like I am right at home . . . In Ireland.”

That was Athletic’s manager Darren Kelly, speaking earlier this week from the club’s training base in Stirling, north of the border.

The rain at least stopped yesterday to make way for some sunshine, as the players were put through their paces with another day containing two separate training sessions.

One Athletic player, in packing his belongings for the week-long trip, is said to have brought their passport with them.

But if it isn’t quite like training in a completely foreign country, it is at least a break from the norm for the squad.

The former Scottish capital, now with a population of less than 50,000, boasts top-class sporting facilities at its university where the club have chosen to locate themselves.

Assistant boss Dean Holden arranged the trip while in charge last season, having experienced what was on offer while a player at Falkirk.

As yet, it has been all work and little play for the players. No golf, or even a spot of table tennis.

But while competitive activities other than football have been off the agenda as yet, there is plenty of scope to enjoy more tranquil exercise.

““The good thing about this place is that it’s a great facility just to go out and enjoy a walk,” said Kelly.