Juggling act for Johnson

Photo: ALAN HOWARTH-

ATHLETIC forward Jonson Clarke-Harris tries to find a way through to the Preston goal.

ATHLETIC manager Lee Johnson could move players out so he can sweep for new blood.

After seeing his side dominate the action at Preston only to be beaten, some movement in the transfer market could take place as Athletic try to kick-start their season.

“We are going to have to try to do some juggling, whether it’s a favour off a Premier League friend or by moving out a couple to bring in a couple. That’s the nature of the beast,” said a disappointed Johnson.

In falling to defeat against last season’s play-off semi-finalists – still unbeaten this season – Athletic sit in 21st place in the division with an away game at Paul Dickov’s Doncaster on Saturday.

Johnson hopes fortunes will change soon.

“We need to win a game,” he said. “Sometimes you can get on a run of bad fortune combined with a lack of finishing. That is what we are on. It will have to change.

“That said, take out that goal and we played well. There is nobody more frustrated than me in the world right now. I take it very personally and it hurts me. It is very hard to take when you lose, especially in a derby.”



ATHLETIC have been linked with a swoop for clubless ex-Leeds goalkeeper Paddy Kenny.

The 36-year-old Republic of Ireland international made 34 appearances for Leeds last season but was controversially pushed out this season, prior to his official departure.

Kenny, formerly of Bury and Sheffield United, joined Leeds for £400,000 two years ago.

The Chronicle understands talks have taken place between Athletic and the player's agent.

Paul Rachubka is currently Athletic’s number one, with rookie first-year professional Joel Coleman his understudy.