Chance to make instant impact

Paul Dickov flanked by Oumare Tounkara (left) and Jean Yves M’voto.

NEW loan signings Oumare Tounkara and Jean-Yves M’Voto are expected to make their Athletic debuts when the npower League One campaign gets under way at Tranmere tomorrow.

The Sunderland duo have both been named in Paul Dickov’s squad for the trip to Prenton Park, with Tounkara likely to partner Warren Feeney up front.

Chris Taylor and skipper Sean Gregan are also surprise inclusions in the 20-man party, although both players may have to settle for a place on the bench.

If Gregan doesn’t make it, he will hand the captain’s armband to fellow centre-back Reuben Hazell in front of what is expected to be one of Rovers’ biggest gates of the campaign.

“They will be up for it,” said Dickov.

“Les (Parry, Rovers manager) has already been in the press saying it is going to be their biggest game and crowd of the season.

“We know what to expect. It is not going to be easy going there and I know from being a player how difficult it can be there.

“Les has got them working hard and they are a big, strong side who will make it tough for us.”

The arrival of Tounkara and M’Voto takes the number of players in the squad to 34 — a figure Athletic are keen to trim in order to manage the wage bill.

Premier League offers continue to flow for Tom Eaves but the club have not yet accepted a bid.

Burnley manager Brian Laws has confirmed his interest in the 18-year-old striker.

“If an offer comes in that we think is acceptable for his age and his talent then we will have to seriously consider it,” said Dickov.

“There is not a lot of money around. But the one thing you won’t hear me do is moan about the money we don’t have, as I knew the score coming here.

“If the right offer comes in we have to make sure it is the right move for us and for Tom as well.

“Whether he is here or somewhere else, we want to look after him because he is a really good kid.”

Tranmere have suffered badly from a succession of injuries in the build-up to the game.

Defensive duo Ash Taylor and Marlon Broomes are out of contention, as is midfielder Alan Mahon, while doubts hang over four others — Ian Goodison, Paul McLaren, Tim Cathalina and Josh Labadie.

Tall striker Enoch Showunmi, brought in from Falkirk, is a likely starter.

Athletic (from): Brill, M’Voto, Holdsworth, Hazel, Jones, Kelly, Jarrett, Furman, Alessandra, Gregan, Feeney, Taylor, Lee, Stephens, Black, Ollerenshaw, Millar, Bembo-Leta, McGrath, Tounkara.

FORMER Athletic loan star Ryan Bertrand has been called up to the England under-21s squad.

The Chelsea full-back is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest.