Latics poised for job talks

ATHLETIC are expecting to name their new manager by early next week — and the identity of the boss will depend on how well the candidates for the job interview over the coming few days.

A host of names have been linked to the Boundary Park vacancy after Dave Penney left the club two days before the final match of the season.

A shortlist has been created after discussions between the club’s directors, with around a half-dozen men in line to be spoken to.

At present, caretaker manager Martin Gray has moved in to become favourite for the job with bookmakers, ahead of former Athletic players Mark Crossley and Frank Bunn.

But Jim Gannon, who had been tipped for the role at one stage, looks set to rejoin relegated Stockport County as manager in the near future.

Former Preston and Shrewsbury boss Paul Simpson is also thought to be in the mix, though on the balance of probability it seems likely Athletic will opt to plump for a less experienced candidate who has some coaching experience under his belt.

A number of Athletic players who haven’t yet gone on holiday are still training at the club with reserve team coach Lee Duxbury.

Club officials are today expecting to hear finalised details of their Lancashire Senior Cup final against Liverpool.

The game will be played either at Boundary Park or at the Lancashire County FA headquarters in Leyland.

Athletic’s reserves qualified by seeing off Preston North End 2-0 in a last-four tie to land the fixture against the Premier League giants, with striker Ryan Brooke scoring twice.

Athletic currently have three pre-season friendlies lined up, at home against Burnley (July 12, 7pm), Wigan (July 21, 7.45pm) and Preston (July 27, 7.30pm), with more against non-league opposition away from Boundary Park still to be announced.