Athletic line up move fore Maher

ATHLETIC are on the trail of former Southend midfield man Kevin Maher.

A contract has been offered to the 31-year-old, who is a free agent after being released at the end of last season.

Maher spent just over a decade at Southend, making more than 450 appearances and often playing as captain of the Roots Hall side.

He fell from favour midway through last term and, while Southend went on to reach the League One play-offs, Maher moved on loan to Gillingham.

Athletic are still seeking one more midfielder and believe Maher’s blend of experience, grit and passing ability could make him a valuable addition to the squad.

Several clubs are showing an interest, but Boundary Park officials hope he will respond to their offer by the end of this week.

Meanwhile, Athletic are gearing up for their first pre-season friendly, which takes place tonight at Welsh Premier League side Rhyl.

Assistant manager Tommy Wright said: “Things have gone well so far and everyone is looking pretty sharp. The lads have benefited from the work they were given over the summer.

“At the moment we’ve only got two missing from training – Kieran Lee, who shouldn’t be too long with his hamstring strain, and John Thompson, who will hopefully join in with the other lads next week.

“We had bad luck with injuries last season, so fingers crossed it won’t happen again. And we’ve got enough players at the moment to use two teams against Rhyl.

“We’ll try to give everybody a decent run-out and we’re at the time of year when every single player is fighting to be part of the starting XI in a few weeks’ time.

“You sometimes find that a player who isn’t necessarily first choice at the start of pre-season can do well and push himself right to the front.

“He can end up as the first name on your teamsheet when the league games start, so there’s plenty at stake in addition to fitness.”

JP Kalala is one such player hoping to make a big impression – the midfield man had an up-and-down first year with Athletic and remains available on a free transfer.

But Wright added: “JP has come back in, worked hard and shown a very good attitude.

“He’s a good professional and, like everybody else, he’s in contention for a place. As long as he’s at the club, that won’t change.”

Admission to tonight’s game, which kicks off at 7.30, costs £7 (adults), £4 (over-65s) and £2 (under-16s).

n ATHLETIC are seeking volunteers to help them clean all 10,800 seats at Boundary Park in readiness for the new season.

Work will be carried out tomorrow and Friday and volunteers will be given free admission to the home friendlies against Derby and Hull. Contact Stu Vose at the club on 0871 226 1681.