Latics put on Haining alert

WILL HAINING (right): Would welcome a move back to England.

ATHLETIC have been alerted that their former player Will Haining is keen to return to English football.

Haining has spent the last two seasons playing in the Scottish Premier League for St Mirren but he is out-of-contract this summer.

And there would be no obstacles to the 26-year-old returning to Boundary Park as he becomes a free agent after tomorrow’s final game against Hamilton.

Haining is reported to be keeping his options open, but a move to Athletic would be perfect as his wife, the glamour model Michelle Marsh, is an Oldhamer.

The Glaswegian also kicked off his career at Boundary Park having joined Athletic from junior football.

In six years as a professional with Athletic, Haining made 180 first-team appearances scoring 12 goals.

He joined St Mirren in the summer of 2007 as a free agent and in the last two seasons has played 57 matches for them.

Athletic manager Dave Penney has completed his first signing with Matty Wolfenden agreeing a short-term contract.

The 23-year-old from Springhead has agreed a deal until the end of August in a bid to prove his fitness after an injury-blighted season.

Wolfenden will take part in pre-season training, friendlies and also be available for senior action during that time.

If Wolfenden proves his worth and fitness, there is every chance he will be given a longer-term deal.

Wolfenden has made 47 first-team appearances since making his debut as a 16-year-old against Swindon Town in 2003.

Chief executive Alan Hardy said: “We are delighted Matty has decided to sign this short-term deal and he has the chance to prove his fitness.

“If things go well, there may be the possibility of offering him a further extension.”

Athletic are inching towards finalising an agreement with Martin Gray and Andy Collett, who are set to join Penney’s management team.

Gray is set to be assistant manager and Collett goalkeeping coach.

The contracts for the pair have been sent to the League Managers’ Association for them to check the fine print.