Search on for training camp

MARK MOISLEY . . . examining options

ATHLETIC are looking to play five pre-season matches this summer, with the programme devised by manager John Sheridan also including a training camp.

The pre-season schedule will commence in July and will feature the 11 players who are currently under contract at SportsDirect.com Park, with offers out to a further six.

As well as the fitness-building friendlies, which precede a Sky Bet League One season that begins on Saturday, August 5, players and coaching staff will take up residence at a training facility that's likely to be UK-based.

"We are looking at potential venues to fit in with the schedule that has been set up," said Athletic's chief executive Mark Moisley, of a camp intended to be similar to the one that Athletic went on in Stirling ahead of the 2015-16 season.

"It would mean going away on the week commencing July 10. The problem with Scotland is that this would mean coinciding with the Scottish League Cup.

"So we are examining the options elsewhere at the moment."

The intention would be to use the camp, extending over a few days, for fitness and team bonding purposes while also playing a couple of games.

While the excellent facilities at Stirling provided a useful stay - there were matches included against Stirling Albion and St Mirren - the first round of group games in next season's Betfred Cup in Scotland take place on Saturday, July 15.

Last season, Athletic played home friendlies against Huddersfield, Preston and Wigan and travelled to AFC Fylde and Grimsby Town.

There was also a Lancashire Senior Cup tie against Manchester United at Leigh Sports Village.

Meanwhile, Sheridan's work on player targets means looking not just ability but character.

"You don't have to be Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho or Jurgen Klopp," he said.

"If you just have an honest group of players who enjoy playing for you, have a desire and enjoy coming into work every day, then you have a good chance. I really do believe that."