Back in the firing line

JOSH Parker flew into his reserves comeback today bidding to make up for lost time.

In only his second start for Athletic after signing a one-year deal in the summer following a successful trial, the 20-year-old winger suffered substantial damage to his knee in an apparently innocuous challenge with Rochdale goalkeeper Jake Kean.

That was more than 11 weeks ago — and after impressing with his lightning pace and early delivery into the penalty area, Parker has been a frustrated spectator ever since.

After taking a full part in training last week, Parker was given the green light to play a part off the bench for the reserves’ Central League, West Division match at Tranmere Rovers this afternoon, which was being watched by Athletic manager Paul Dickov. Another player who stood out on the squad list for that clash is Djeny Bembo.

The Congolese forward sustained a dislocated ankle and damaged ligaments in a training ground accident early last season. After returning at the end of that campaign, though, complications ensued meaning a second operation was necessary for the forward, who turned 20 last week.

Also included in Lee Duxbury’s squad was Australian trialist Dean Bouzanis, a goalkeeper recently released by Liverpool who has been training with the club for the past few weeks.


SHORTLISTED Kieran Lee missed out on the League One player of the year prize last night at the North-West Football Awards, with Enoch Showunmi of Tranmere claiming the honours.

ATHLETIC’S Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Northern Area semi-final against Bradford City will take place on Tuesday, December 6. Kick-off 7.45pm. Ticket prices are £10 adults, £5 over-65s and under-16s and under-12s will go free only in the Detect-All Chaddy End.
Bradford supporters have been allocated the Leesfield Developments Rochdale Road Stand.