Newton quits Latics board

ATHLETIC are coping with more upheaval behind the scenes following the departure of director Mike Newton.

The 39-year-old New York-based businessman leaves following a disagreement at board level over how best to move the club forward.

Newton, who was present at Saturday’s last home game of the season against Charlton, expressed his sadness at his situation which has come to a head only days after the sacking of manager Dave Penney.

“I joined last July and since then I feel I have given the club good value financially and must have been over eight times from New York,” said Stoke-in-Trent-born Newton, a financial trader.

“I have done my best to sort out issues and have worked hard for the club and am disappointed I can’t take my involvement further.”

Newton also gave his backing to caretaker boss Martin Gray, who presided over Athletic’s 2-0 home defeat to Charlton which rounded off the season.

Gray is set to meet with managing director Simon Corney and chief executive Alan Hardy either this afternoon — depending on when the Football League meeting in Walsall finishes — or tomorrow to discuss his future.

“I think at some point it is important to start looking forward and not back,” added Newton on the issue of appointing a new manager.

“The club has a fantastic history. But it shouldn’t become a museum.

“It has to be progressive and not look back all the time or else it will wither on the vine.

“Martin is prepared to make difficult decisions.

“He has a real feel for the club and is desperate to do well and give the fans something.

“His training sessions are very professional and I would personally say he is a strong candidate.”

Newton’s departure leaves the club with six board members: Corney, Hardy, chairman Simon Blitz, Danny Gazal, Ian Hill and Trust Oldham chief Barry Owen.

“We wish Mike well in the future, whatever he decides to do,” Hardy said.

Managerial applications have continued to arrive at the club over the weekend and Athletic will want to secure their new man at the helm in time to take full advantage of the group of players released on free transfers when contracts end on June 30.

Athletic’s retained list is likely to be unveiled on Friday, once players themselves have been spoken to.

“A lot of people have telephoned to express an interest in the job and at the moment we have had a good selection,” Hardy added.

o THE NEW Athletic kit produced brisk business in the club shop at the weekend.

Unveiled in the Charlton game, the strip features new white sleeves, shorts and socks.

o THERE are now 10 days left before the deadline for the biggest season ticket discounts expires on May 20.