Cup-tie repeat for Latics

ATHLETIC have been drawn at Burnley in the second round of the Carling Cup — 12 months after they met at the same stage of the competition.

The Coca-Cola Championship outfit emerged 3-0 winners on that occasion, but John Sheridan’s side appear better equipped this time round for the game which will take place on the week beginning August 25.

“It should be a tasty tie,” said Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy. “It’s a Lancashire derby and an an appropriate away game for our fans.”

Craig Davies, who is suspended for the match after being sent off against Rochdale in the first round of the cup on Tuesday night, could be in action for Wales next Wednesday.

He has been called into the full squad for the friendly against Georgia at Swansea.

Meanwhile, Sheridan admits he feels happier with the choices in his squad after Athletic’s game at Rochdale.

Sheridan made three alterations to the side who kicked off against Millwall on the season’s opening day, with Deane Smalley, Lee Hughes and Danny Whitaker all called up.

Smalley was a handful down the right, Hughes looked sharp after his injury lay-off and midfield man Whitaker continued to make a good early impression.

Athletic also gave defender Stefan Stam his first action of the campaign en route to their victory on penalties.

Sheridan explained: “I keep saying the strength of my squad is going to be important, so it was good to see people coming in and doing well.

“We need a group of players who are pushing each other all the way.

“Young Smalley wasn’t even on the bench against Millwall, but it’s important for lads like him to respond in the right way, which he did by playing well (at Spotland).

“It gives me more confidence that I can bring people into my team when I get injuries or want to change things round.”

Kevin Maher (ribs) and Kelvin Lomax (dead leg) are hopeful of being fit to face Leeds on Saturday.

Tickets must be bought in advance for the clash at Elland Road. Prices are £27 (adults), £17 (over-60s) and £13 (under-16s).


Carling Cup draw, second round —

Ipswich v Colchester; Coventry v Newcastle, Hartlepool v West Brom; West Ham v Macclesfield; Huddersfield v Sheffield United; Cardiff v MK Dons; Swansea v Hull; Rotherham v Wolves; Brighton v MANCHESTER CITY; Reading v Luton; Blackburn v Grimsby; Wigan v Notts County; Leeds v Crystal Palace; Crewe v Bristol City; Middlesbrough v Yeovil; Fulham v Leicester; QPR v Carlisle; Nottingham Forest v Sunderland; Burnley v OLDHAM; Southampton v Birmingham; Bolton v Northampton; Watford v Darlington; Preston v Derby; Cheltenham v Stoke.