Latics to boost frontline power

ATHLETIC will have extra firepower available the week after next when in-form striker Craig Davies returns from a loan spell at Stockport County.

Manager John Sheridan has confirmed that front-man Davies, who has scored six goals in 11 appearances for the Hatters, will return to Boundary Park following three months away.

Davies scored the first hat-trick of his career on Saturday when he netted all the goals in Stockport’s 3-1 win against Bristol Rovers.

And the return of 22-year-old Davies will provide added competition as he joins Lee Hughes, Darren Byfield, Chris O’Grady, Lewis Alessandra and Deane Smalley who are all vying for the two striking spots.

Stockport would like to sign Davies permanently, but manager Jim Gannon has conceded he doesn’t have the funds available to do so.

Athletic are expecting to be involved in transfer activity at the start of the January transfer window.

The loan moves of midfield man J P Kalala to Grimsby and defender John Thompson to Notts County expire on January 3. And with the pair currently transfer-listed, there is every chance they will both move on to pursue their careers elsewhere.

Athletic have not had any contact with either Grimsby or Notts County, but it is understood both clubs may be interested in making the deals permanent.

Sheridan looks set to stay at Boundary Park after insisting he is not interested in the managerial vacancy at his former club Leeds United.

It appears Blackpool boss Simon Grayson is the surprise choice as successor to Gary McAllister, who was sacked on Sunda, although the Seasiders have rejected an initial approach.

Athletic’s groundstaff are keeping a close eye on the weather with another cold snap forecast for later this week.

They are to put frost covers on the pitch tomorrow to ensure the home game against Carlisle on Sunday goes ahead.

Athletic remind fans wanting to buy tickets or book travel to the Boxing Day game at Crewe that the Boundary Park offices shut at noon tomorrow.

Athletic have been forced to postpone tonight’s book-signing session at Boundary Park as Dave Moore, author of “Oldham Athletic On This Day,” has been delayed en route from his home in Vancouver, Canada, due to heavy snow.

Moore, who has three flights to get to Manchester, was late leaving and missed a connection in Philadelphia.

He is hoping to arrive in time for a signing session at the Chronicle offices tomorrow between 10am-1pm.