Belief growing, insists Furman

AS FAR as available experiences in League One go, Athletic have been there, done it all and bought the T-Shirt.

Except, of course, when it comes to ending up in either an automatic promotion or relegation spot over the course of the past 13 completed seasons.

In recent times, the make-up of the division has shifted from what it once was.

Down have come stricken former Premier League teams of recent vintage like Leeds United, Charlton Athletic, Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton, still with large wallets and crowds to match despite their problems.

At the other end of the scale — more in keeping with Athletic — are the likes of Dagenham, Exeter and Bournemouth.

In short, there appears to exist right now a gap between the haves and the have-nots that is larger than it has ever been.

But resources aren't everything.

As Blackpool so nearly proved against Manchester City at the weekend, in what was described by Tangerines boss Ian Holloway as the biggest mismatch in Premier League history, a well-drilled and hard-working side with a sprinkling of talent can have an impact even against the most financially well-heeled opponent.

And Athletic midfielder Dean Furman doesn't believe that there is anyone Athletic have to fear in League One, despite the disparity in resources between certain clubs — a factor which will be apparent again this weekend when Athletic visit the swanky St Mary's Stadium.

"We have played 12 games in the league now and we don't fear anyone," said Athletic's dynamic midfielder, so impressive with his energy and commitment levels this season.

"There are a lot of teams spending a lot more than us — that is a well-known fact — but once you get out there it is 11 versus 11 and it doesn't matter who you are, how much was paid for you and how much you earn.

"I think it is about how you apply yourself to the game. We have a team with a lot of young lads who have a lot of energy and we are all working hard for each other."