More delays as new stand waits for power connection

Dominic Poleon - could go out on loan

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CONTINUED delays to the opening of the North Stand remain a huge frustration for both Athletic and the club’s supporters.

The club has confirmed it is still waiting for mains power to be connected to the delayed £6.5million structure. Originally expected to be done in July for the start of the new season, final installation, testing and commissioning work must be completed before he public can be admitted. Electricity North West has offered no comment so far.

The continued delay means the stand will not be open by the time Peterborough visit on September 12.

“We acknowledge the inconvenience and disappointment this will cause supporters and can only apologise wholeheartedly,” said a club statement.

Meanwhile moves are underway to bring new faces to join newcomer Mark Yeates, who passed a medical yesterday after signing a one month deal.

The former Colchester and Bradford winger (30) started training with the team last week and could stay longer if he impresses.

Further additions to manager Darren Kelly’s squad could depend on fringe players leaving. Dominic Poleon has managed only one start this season and could be invited to take up a loan move, while £20,000 signing Rhys Murphy might make a loan switch as Athletic try to free the playing budget for new additions.

Liverpool right back Ryan McLaughlin (20), a full Northern Ireland international, has been linked with a season-long loan move to Oldham. But a centre-forward tops the agenda. Jake Cassidy’s long-term injury has left a hole in the forward line and the club is working hard to find a replacement.

One man who could attract interest is Sunderland’s rookie striker Mickael Mandron.

The 6ft 3in, 20-year-old French has spent time on loan at Fleetwood and Shrewsbury and has limited Premier League experience at the Stadium of Light.



ATHLETIC have put a contingency plan in place for fans who have bought tickets for the North Stand.

For the games against Bradford on September 5 and Peterborough a week later, supporters who have season tickets for the North Stand will be admitted to the Rochdale Road Stand on production of the match voucher.

Fans wanting to switch to the main stand for these games must exchange their voucher for a ticket before the day of the game.