Hectic schedule in prospect

A GRUELLING run of seven games inside the next month will go a long way to deciding Athletic’s season.

The recent postponements have handed the club a tough run — which includes three rearranged midweek matches, the last of which is Carlisle United at home on Tuesday, February 15 (7.45pm).

Athletic’s timetable:

Swindon (home), Saturday, January 8: Danny Wilson’s side haven’t been in the best of form this season, but with Charlie Austin up front are guaranteed to possess strike power.

Southampton (home), Tuesday, January 11: Now up in the automatic promotion places, Saints are flying at the moment and will be a tough nut to crack.

Plymouth (away), Saturday, January 15: Financially stricken but limping on, the Pilgrims recently enjoyed a come-from-behind win at Bristol Rovers which showed they still possess plenty of spirit.

Brentford (home), Saturday, January 22: A 3-1 defeat at Bournemouth on Monday was the Bees’ first in six games, a sequence including a 2-0 win at Southampton.

Walsall (away), Tuesday, January 25: Bottom-of-the-table and without a manager, the Saddlers are struggling against relegation.

Carlisle (away), Saturday, January 29: Form has dipped of late and the Cumbrians, though a dangerous side, haven’t won in their last five league games.

Hartlepool (home), Tuesday, February 1: Mick Wadsworth’s men showed what they are all about in defeating Athletic 4-2 on New Year’s Day.

Dagenham and Redbridge (home), Saturday, February 5: Struggling near the foot of the table, John Still’s men will no doubt be stubborn opponents.