Dickov’s TV challenge

PAUL Dickov wants Athletic to showcase their real qualities against Tranmere Rovers in the televised clash at Boundary Park tonight (7.45pm kick-off).

On a run of six defeats in a row and not having tasted victory since Hartlepool were dispatched 12 games ago, Dickov is of the opinion that other than a lack of goals, there isn’t an awful lot wrong with the way his side are playing at the moment.

Without Dale Stephens, whose loan exit to Southampton means Blackburn’s Jason Lowe will make his debut in central midfield tonight, Athletic’s boss hopes to have Chris Taylor (mumps) and Jean-Yves Mvoto (ankle) in his line-up for what is a vital npower League One clash.

While recognising that Tranmere — four points and four places behind Athletic in 19th — have quality players within their ranks, Dickov says that if his players operate to the best of their ability then Rovers will find life hard.

“Dale Jennings is one of the best prospects in the country and Andy Robinson is a player I know well from my time at Leeds United,” Dickov said. “He is a clever footballer.

“But we come across good players in this division every single week.

“We have to impose ourselves and do what we are good at, just like we did against Brighton.”

Dickov also suggested once again that he could involve himself in order to try to stimulate an attack that has produced only two goals in 10 games.

“If we feel it is needed then I will (be involved),” he added, with a place among the substitutes a possibility for the manager tonight.

“But if not, then we have players here who can do the job.”

Andy Todd, who has slightly tweaked a knee, is also back in contention for a place on the bench.


TONIGHT’S game is being broadcast live on Sky Sports 1, with coverage starting at 7.30pm.