Dunn gives it straight

DAVID DUNN: “I don’t think recruitment has been very good previously, that’s for sure”

DAVID Dunn plans to make up for lost time and points by bringing in the players he needs and laying down the law to under-performing team members.

Echoing the sentiments this week of Athletic legend Neil Redfearn at Rotherham, Dunn has criticised recruitment before his appointment.

Athletic have already used 34 players this season - which the manager feels is a symptom of using players who haven’t been able to find regular form.

Dunn is clearly determined to reshape his side once the transfer window opens in the New Year.

“There are positions that we need, without a doubt. That is what we will look to do,” said Dunn, whose primary target is a dominant centre back, missing al season.

“It is pretty simple — we need to get certain positions sorted. We have had to swap and change the team too much this year. We have used too many players.

“I don’t think recruitment has been very good previously, that’s for sure. We can’t make it an excuse;. I haven’t and I won’t. But it’s no secret we have been looking at certain positions for a while.

“But playerswho can make a difference are few and far between.”

Dunn has also blasted the notion that the pressure will lift from his players’ shoulders at the Ricoh Arena tomorrow, by reminding them that their professional careers are at stake for EVERY game.

Athletic’s manager was expected to re-sign Richard Eckersley on a month’s deal today as part of his attempt to shape a side capable of getting a win at Coventry the promotion-hunting Sky Blues.

Athletic welcome back Richie Wellens, Jay Fulton and Michael Higdon to the squad which last ran out at Sheffield United two weeks ago. Cameron Dummigan is still struggling for fitness and Lee Croft may return to the bench.

Over the next month, straight-talking Dunn promised his reshaped squad won’t have room for talented but lily-livered members.

“I hate that players feel like they can go somewhere where there is no pressure. Why bother?” said Dunn, whose side could climb out of the bottom four with a win tomorrow.

“Most players have six months on their contracts left. They need to give everything — blood, sweat and tears — for this shirt until May. Character is a big thing. We can’t have weak people.”