Exit sign hangs over Latics pair
Reporter: KEVIN RICHARDSON
Date published: 21 July 2009
MATTY WOLFENDEN’S Athletic career is over.
The 22-year-old striker, who came through the club’s centre of excellence system, has been told he is available on loan.
Wolfenden, troubled by a spate of injuries since his first-team debut in 2003, signed a short-team deal until the end of August.
But, after being informed of the news by manager Dave Penney, it has effectively sealed his fate as an Athletic player.
Former Manchester United midfielder Kieran Lee (21), who has another season left on his contract, can also go out on loan.
However, Lee also looks to have played his last game for Athletic. He was signed by John Sheridan before the start of last season, but failed to hold down a regular starting spot.
Penney said: ‘Neither Matty nor Kieran will effect the first team.
“They are available for loan, which frees up two places so we can get other players in.”
Wolfenden made his first-team debut at the age of 16 against Swindon Town and went on to make 47 appearances.
But his opportunities have been limited by injury, although he was offered a chance to prove his form and fitness after he impressed caretaker manager Joe Royle at the end of last season.
However, Penney has decided that Wolfenden’s future lies elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Athletic continue their build-up to the new season tonight (7.30pm) at Coca-Cola League Two outfit Macclesfield Town, where former Latics favourite Matthew Tipton is having trials.
Penney is expected to name the same starting XI which took to the field against Bury last Saturday.
That means Pawel Abbott and Chris O’Grady will partner each other in attack, with Deane Smalley, Jon Worthington. Dean Furman and Chris Taylor in midfield.
Neal Eardley, Reuben Hazell, Sean Gregan and Joe Jacobson will form the defensive line in front of goalkeeper Dean Brill.
Rob Purdie, who has been suffering from a stomach muscle strain, is still sidelined, so too Dale Stephens (groin) and Paul Black (foot).
ATHLETIC are offering a joint ticket for forthcoming Sunderland and Blackpool home friendly games at £15 for adults, £7 for 12 to 16- years-olds and OAPs and £4 for under-12s.
Individual admission prices for the two home friendlies are £10, £5 and £3.
