Furman lauded by boss

DEAN Furman's all-round qualities are invaluable to Athletic, according to manager Paul Dickov.

Club captain at the tender age of 23, Furman's maturity beyond his years show through in all aspects of his professional life.

Now fully recovered from knee surgery, it is his abilities on the playing side that Dickov will look towards harnessing, with the South Africa-born player getting a good half-hour on the field at Tranmere last week.

"He is my captain on and off the pitch," said Dickov. "His enthusiasm rubs off on others.

"The more leaders you have — like Shefki Kuqi, Zander Diamond, Nathan Clarke and Chris Taylor — the better. Dean is a player others look up to and when things aren't going well for some he is the one out there having a chat and dragging them through."

Furman is now targeting a start against Wycombe on Saturday, with the likelihood of a recall increased by the team's disappointing show at Prenton Park.

"Players know that if they are performing well, regardless of experience, they will keep their place," the manager added.