Penney plays waiting game

NEW Athletic manager Dave Penney is being forced to play a waiting game as he builds his squad for the new campaign.

Penney admits it is a “frustrating” time as he waits for transfer targets to make decisions whether they are prepared to move to Boundary Park.

The Athletic manager explained that offers have been made to a number of players who are all mulling over the terms of the contracts.

Penney, who so far has signed only Rob Purdie and Jon Worthington, said: “It is fair to say that we are probably looking at three or four players for each area of the team - defence, midfield and up front.

“We have identified the players we would like and have spoken to most of them.”

Penney added the most heartening thing is that not one player has yet turned Athletic down.

The Athletic chief is aware of rumours linking him with the likes of Miguel Angel Llera, Neal Trotman and Stephen Hughes, but will not be drawn on them.

“If I comment on every player we are being linked with, it becomes silly so I won’t say anything until we have completed the signing,” he explained.

Penney says it is no secret that he is looking for experienced players to strengthen his playing staff.

“When you take Reuben Hazell, Danny Whitaker and Rob Purdie out, we have a very young squad so the emphasis will be on players in their mid-twenties,” he continued.

Penney has been delighted with the way in which the training sessions of last week and this have gone.

He believes an eight-week break was too long and the players will benefit from the extra work when it comes to reporting back on June 29.

Penney said: “It has also given the players the opportunity to get to know Martin Gray and myself and how we work.

“We have done a lot of fitness and ball work and I have been pleased with the way things have gone.”