Latics support for FA initiative

ATHLETIC will throw their weight behind a Football League initiative aimed at encouraging clubs to produce home-grown players.

Chief executive Alan Hardy believes the move, which was being discussed at a Football League meeting at Leicester City’s Walkers Stadium today, has its merits.

Mr Hardy explained: “It looks as though the Football League could be leading the way on this important issue.

“Personally, I think the Premier League ought to be looking at introducing something similar because if we don’t develop more players it will impact on the national team.

“Obviously there is European Union legislation on employment matters which has to be considered, but I still think something can be done.”

Though only at a preliminary discussion stage, clubs will be giving their thoughts at introducing a percentage of home-produced players either in their squad or starting line ups.

And if it comes to voting on a proposal at a future meeting, Mr Hardy says Athletic would be for it.

It would have little or no effect on Athletic, who can boast a youth policy which is second to none. Indeed, nine of the 24 players in the first-team squad have come through the junior ranks.

Meanwhile, Athletic reserves made it two wins out of two in the Manchester Senior Cup with a 2-1 defeat of Bury at Boundary Park.

Chris O’Grady and Craig Davies got the goals as the pair were given a one-hour workout before being replaced.

Nine members of the first-team squad were in the starting XI, including defender Stefan Stam, who was returning after a groin injury, and J P Kalala. The midfielder is back at Boundary Park after a trial at Plymouth Argyle.

Kalala, who is available for transfer, had been due to play for the Pilgrims’ reserve side against Cheltenham, but the game was called off.

Striker Matty Wolfenden pulled out at short notice after he was pencilled in to return from a thigh strain.