Latics striker search goes on

ATHLETIC manager Paul Dickov has set his sights elsewhere on a new striker after Clayton Donaldson’s switch to Brentford.

The 29-year-old striker, who was being chased by a host of clubs, joined the Bees late last week.

Dickov had an inkling 10 days ago that the ex-Crewe striker would not be heading to Boundary Park and stressed that he wants players to arrive at the club for footballing reasons rather than for pay cheques.

“I spoke to Clayton and his agent a few times and it got to the stage where the sort of figures that was being talked about were too much for us,” he said.

“It is nothing against him, but we knew if it came down to a bidding war then we would not be able to compete.

“We want to get players in here like big Jean-Yves Mvoto. He could have gone elsewhere for more money but he chose to come here.

“It has to be the right sort of person and we are constantly on the telephone.

“We will take our time over it and there is no rush.”

Athletic’s players are back in training today ahead of the club’s first pre-season friendly at Blue Square Bet Premier side Barrow on Saturday (3pm kick-off).