Hazell: Show more steel

Reuben Hazell: proud to be latics skipper

ATHLETIC skipper Reuben Hazell has called on his team-mates to show more determination to hold on to a lead ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Plymouth Argyle.

The towering centre back, who has inherited the armband on a permanent basis following Sean Gregan’s loan switch to Fleetwood Town, believes there is nothing to fear in npower League One except self-inflicted problems.

Paul Dickov’s men have brought the feelgood factor back to Boundary Park this season but also have a tendency to concede goals in injury time of both halves, particularly from set pieces.

Hazell said: “We have shown a lack of concentration at times and it is costing us dearly.

“We have conceded goals in first half stoppage time against Peterborough, Brighton and Southampton and what that does is give the opposition the impetus to come back stronger after the break.

“I think we all need to concentrate harder and be more determined when we are in front to see out the match, or the half.

“Plymouth play a lot of long balls, but we are equipped to deal with the threat. We have lads who are good in the air and others who can win the second ball.

“I think we just need to make sure we don’t get sucked in by their style of play, and play our own game.

“There is nothing to fear in this division. We have been to big clubs like Charlton Athletic, Southampton and Sheffield Wednesday already so those trips are out of the way.”

Hazell admitted he was delighted to be handed the extra responsibility the captaincy brings.

“I love being the leader, I have always wanted to be the captain of a side,” he added.

“I have not had the chance to wear the armband since my days with Aston Villa reserves, so it has been a long wait.”

Goalkeeper Josh Ollerenshaw has departed Athletic for a one-month loan stint at Mossley. See Page 39.

Ollerenshaw played for Lilywhites boss Shaun Higgins at junior level during his time at Stalybridge Celtic and Stockport County.

Athletic have named tomorrow’s visit of the Pilgrims ‘City Legends Day’, with former Blues chief Peter Reid in charge of Argyle, and Dickov a fans’ favourite at the Eastlands club.

Season ticket holders at Eastlands can watch the game at Boundary Park for £10.

Athletic season ticket holders can bring a friend for £5.

And vouchers recently handed out at local schools allow free entrance for children, accompanied by an adult who gains admission at half price.