Dickov aims to plug team gaps

WELCOME TO BOUNDARY PARK . . . Ritchie Jones is greeted by Athletic boss Paul Dickov.

Latics looking for defender and a striker
ATHLETIC manager Paul Dickov is looking to strengthen the centre of defence and also boost his options in attack.

After completing his first signing — midfielder Ritchie Jones has joined the Boundary Park outfit on a two-year deal — the Scot is eyeing further improvements to the squad in the lead-up to the new npower League One season.

With only Sean Gregan and Reuben Hazell as his two recognised centre-backs, Dickov is eager to obtain cover in that area before the big kick-off on August 7.

That situation has become a priority with Gregan absent for Athletic’s first two pre-season friendlies against Barrow on Saturday and Burnley on Monday.

The former Leeds and Preston man is undergoing treatment for slight ligament damage to his Achilles.

Athletic’s lack of punch up front also needs addressing.

They scored just 39 league goals in 46 matches last term, with only Pawel Abbott (13) managing to hit double figures.

Athletic have already been linked with young Everton striker Jose Baxter on a season-long loan.

Toffees manager David Moyes apparently wants the 18-year-old, who is being tipped as a star of the future at Goodison Park, to gain experience away from the Premier League.

But any move for Baxter will not happen until nearer the start of the season.

Meanwhile, Jones is delighted to be a part of Dickov’s new regime.

The 23-year-old former Manchester United player was offered a contract by a Championship outfit as well as two League One rivals.

Jones, who scored against Athletic last season while playing for Hartlepool, said: “I was very impressed with the manager’s ambitions and what he had to say.

“I am happy to be coming here and can’t wait to get started and to do well.”

Dickov had pinpointed Jones as a potential signing after he was handed the reins last month.

He said: “Ritchie was a player I identified as somebody with a great pedigree, having started at Manches-ter United and who over the last two years has probably been Hartlepool’s best player.

“He has a lot of experience, but he is also young, hungry to succeed, has a good work ethic and attitude.

“He is also a very good footballer, who will provide added competition for places in midfield.

“It shows a lot that the kid wants to come here and buy into what I am trying to achieve. He will be a great signing for us."


ATHLETIC season-ticket holders in the Leesfield Developments Rochdale Road Stand will be moved to other parts of Boundary Park for the first home game of the season.
Visitors Notts County have been given the large section of the stand after suggesting they could bring 2,000 supporters to the game on Saturday, August 14.