Lee positive about Latics outlook

LEE JOHNSON . . . “most of the players had good games” in midweek clash with Port Vale.

Despite taking only a point from the last two home games, there was enough in the Port Vale draw in midweek to persuade Athletic boss Lee Johnson the team will soon be on an upward march through Sky Bet League One.

Preston await tomorrow at Deepdale — a ground at which Athletic hasn’t won a league game for 33 years. But Johnson says the frustration of not yet having won will soon be over.

“Take the emotion out of it; I was pleased with the organisation and runs of attacks,” said Johnson of the 1-1 draw with Vale. “Generally most players had good games which is what we need.”

While travelling to and from Largs this week as part of his UEFA Pro Licence course, Johnson contacted every member of his squad by phone.

“It was a long journey, but I wanted to see where everyone was and to refocus,” he explained,

That focus will be vital tomorrow at Preston, last year’s losing League One play-off finalists.

“They are a strong side and one of the clubs with the biggest resources in the division,” Johnson said.

“But League One isn’t played on paper but on the intensity of the moment. We are certainly the underdogs and not many people will expect us to go there and win. We have to make sure we do.”