Latics fend off transfer bid

Simon Corney: Keen to keep Athletic’s squad together.

ATHLETIC have rejected a new offer for one of their talented young players.

The club’s owners are determined to keep their squad together and are continuing to fight off interest during the transfer window.

Managing director Simon Corney admitted: “It would be unfair to name the people involved, but we’ve received another bid and turned it down.

“The same club had already made an offer for the same player. We said ‘no’ during the summer and the situation hasn’t changed.

“Unless somebody comes along and meets the valuation we have of our players, we will not be selling.

“Actually, we might not sell even if they did meet our valuation, but it’s fair to say clubs are circling around.”

Athletic refused to sell Chris Taylor to Blackpool during the close-season and have also been approached about other members of the squad.

The transfer window closes a week on Sunday, after which permanent moves are banned until January.

Athletic’s home match against Cheltenham on Saturday will see the launch of a new family area at Boundary Park.

The old Broadway side of the ground used to be Athletic’s family stand, but a different block of seats has been designated after requests from fans.

Following the recent game with Millwall, there were complaints about abusive language and persistent standing in the Leesfield Developments Stand (Rochdale Road End).

And Athletic have now responded by creating an area for supporters with young children.
It is in the Detect All Chaddy End, nearest the Broadway side, and covers rows C to N, seats 122 to 151.

Any season-ticket holders who wish to transfer to these seats can do so by calling at the ticket office. Anyone wishing to move out of the family area should do the same.

Advance tickets are now on sale for Athletic’s Carling Cup second-round tie at Burnley next Tuesday.

They cost £15 (adults), £10 (over-65s) and £5 (under-16s). Admission is also possible on the night, but all fans, regardless of age, will be charged £15.


BOUNDARY Blues are running a trip to Athletic’s game at Tranmere on September 6.
The cost of travel and a match ticket is £10 for members or £20 for parents and guardians. Members on the trip will also have the chance to be match mascot.