Latics to take on Wigan

PREMIER League outfit Wigan will provide Athletic with stern opposition when they visit Boundary Park for a pre-season friendly on Wednesday, July 21 (7.45pm).

Roberto Martinez’s team comfortably staved off any relegation fears last season, gaining a reputation as an attacking side who like to play attractive football.

Athletic also have home friendlies against Championship sides Burnley (July 12, 7pm) and Preston (July 27, 7.30pm), so the next manager will be given plenty of chances to run the rule over many of his players.

Interviews for the vacant Athletic post will not start until next week, but former Boundary Park goalkeeper Mark Crossley has emerged as the bookmakers’ favourite for the job.

Crossley is a 5-2 chance, followed by ex-Latics striker Frank Bunn (3-1) and former Stockport boss Jim Gannon (4-1).

Athletic fans snapped up up 2010/11 season tickets as last night’s first deadline approached.

Said club chief executive Alan Hardy: “I’d say we have now sold around 2,000, which is not far away from where we were at this stage last season.

“But I want to stress there is still time for fans to make big savings as there are tickets on sale for the main stand, lower tier which gives a yearly saving of £134. This reduction will be in place until June 3.”



MANCHESTER City's record signing Robinho has no wish to return to Eastlands.

After a stormy 18 months following his British record £32.5million arrival from Real Madrid, Robinho was loaned to his old club Santos in January.

Although there is no chance of Santos being able to afford the fee City would want for the 26–year–old, Robinho is adamant he wants to remain in his homeland and is willing to explore alternatives.