Byfield handed Athletic chance

WELCOME: Darren Byfield is training with Athletic and played last night.

OUT-OF-CONTRACT striker Darren Byfield has made a surprise return to Boundary Park.

The out-of-work 32-year-old, recently released by Doncaster Rovers, is on trial with Athletic as he bids to win a full-time contract.

Byfield, who scored once in eight appearances during a loan spell with Athletic last season, featured in last night’s friendly against Middlesbrough, playing for almost an hour.

He was originally earmarked to be a substitute but, when Keigan Parker was delayed by a motorway hold-up, he was elevated to a starting spot.

Manager Dave Penney said: “Darren is without a club and asked if he could come and train with us. It is a situation similar to Will Haining who was with us recently.

“He wasn’t down to start but a couple of players were late arriving so he started and he took full advantage.

“It was his first game and he was blowing towards the end, but everybody could see the quality he has. He is still fit, mobile and he knows the game.”

Athletic were given another injury scare when left-back Joe Jacobson came off early in the second half.

The Welsh under-21 international was replaced as a precaution after complaining of a tight stomach/groin muscle which is not thought to be serious.

Penney was pleased with last night’s workout as they held Boro, a Premier League team until May, to a 2-2 draw.

He described it as their first “proper” test of their build-up to the new Coca-Cola League One campaign saying it was nearer the match tempo they intend to play.

Penney was especially satisfied with the way his team kept its shape and discipline, adding the workrate was far better than on Saturday when they lost at home to a Sunderland reserve/academy side.

He explained: “I was pleased with the way we played, especially in the first half, as we were a threat when we turned and stretched them.

“We tired a little in the second half when they got more of the ball, but I thought it was a good game for both teams.”

A Latics youth team friendly at Ashton United last night was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.


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