Latics in new Byrne talks

ATHLETIC have opened new negotiations with defender Richie Byrne.

The 27-year-old’s short-term deal has now run out, but club officials are talking to him about the possibility of extending his stay.

Byrne impressed Athletic in an early-season trial spell and was offered an initial one-month contract.

He was named in every matchday 16 during that period, making his debut as a substitute at Hartlepool before playing the full 90 minutes against Stockport.

Both appearances were at centre-half, where Athletic are short of numbers with Sean Gregan and Stefan Stam unavailable.

Gregan will miss the Boundary Park clash with Hereford on Sunday (2pm kick-off) as he completes his three-match ban, while Stam has suffered a knee injury.

Athletic could call on John Thompson, who is back to fitness after recovering from long-term knee problems.

But 26-year-old Thompson has not had a look-in this season after being told he can leave the club.

Ex-Aberdeen man Byrne can also play at left-back, but Daniel Jones is set for a run in the side having been signed on loan from Wolves.

Athletic keep a close eye on the market, raising the chance that manager John Sheridan will recruit another new face before Sunday’s game.

The news on Stam, who suffered ligament damage in training last week, will become clearer over the next 24 hours.

He has been assessed by Athletic’s medical staff, but a scan will reveal the extent of his lay-off.

Midfielder Danny Whitaker came through Friday night’s match at Stockport unscathed after passing a fitness test on his knee injury.

Athletic’s reserves are at home to Mansfield Town tomorrow in the Central League Cup. The tie kicks off at 2pm and admission is free.