Taylor target for rival clubs

CHRIS TAYLOR’S future at Athletic is once again the focus of attention with the transfer window shutting next Tuesday.

The 22-year-old winger continues to be courted by clubs, with Leeds United heading the queue of admirers.

It is understood Leeds are keen to sign a wide player to reinforce their bid for promotion from Coca-Cola League One.

Leeds have been represented at both Athletic’s home games and they have money burning a hole in their pockets following the big-money sale of England under-21 international Fabian Delph to Aston Villa.

Taylor was linked with Leeds last season as well as with Blackpool, Doncaster, Reading, Sheffield United and Wolves.

Athletic have rejected one substantial bid for the Springhead-based player, who has been a first-team regular for the last three-and-a-half years.

Taylor’s more immediate concern, however, is trying to shake off the niggling groin strain which has hampered him in recent weeks.

And with Athletic not having a midweek match for the first time so far this season, Taylor has been given a cortisone injection to try to help cure the problem.

Taylor usually finds that after an hour his groin muscle starts to tighten and that is the reason why he has been substituted towards the end of games.

Joe Jacobson and Rob Purdie, both ruled out with stomach-muscle problems, have also been given injections.

It is hoped former Wales under-21 international Jacobson’s injury will respond to the treatment. There had been fears he might need surgery to repair a suspected hernia.

Purdie, who was hurt in the extra week’s training the players did at the beginning of June, is recovering well and ought to soon be able to resume full training.

Athletic are still waiting to hear from a specialist what course of treatment forward Deane Smalley needs to overcome a back problem which has kept him on the sidelines since pre-season.