Newton states Latics’ aims

SHEFKI KUQI: attention to detail is spot-on, says Athletic director Mike Newton.

A CLUB run efficiently and with as much consideration for fans old as new . . . that is the goal for Athletic.

With one of the most restrictive playing budgets in npower League One, the club’s financial

battle was made public last season when it was revealed staff wages were paid late.

Falling attendances — this season’s average Boundary Park crowd of 4,730 is down on last term’s 4,798, despite home games against Sheffield United, Huddersfield and Rochdale already having been played — have contributed to the struggle.

Athletic director Mike Newton believes that while it is important to strive to boost the figures by bringing in new and lapsed fans, those who have stuck by the club should also be looked after properly.

“It is tricky and there is no magic formula,” said Newton, recently back on the board of directors after bids for Port vale and Stockport fell by the wayside.

“We must make sure to retain the existing supporter base by treating those fans decently and giving them value for money.

“We also need to position ourselves as an alternative to Manchester City or United fans. If there is no game for them on a Saturday, as there often isn’t, come to Oldham for a good day out to watch a team playing quality football.”

Enthusiastic Newton is working on initiatives to boost support and has stressed the need for the club to stem losses.

“The debt profile here at the club is very good,” he added. “We need to make sure the business is run as efficiently as possible. Whether it is a better matchday experience or better offerings in the club shop, we are taking positive steps to make sure we keep the costs side under control.

“We know in football there will always have to be a subsidy from directors to keep the club going.

“But it is important we are run efficiently, in such a way that there is enough money to support both (manager) Paul Dickov and also Tony Philliskirk (head of youth) when it comes to youth development.”

Despite the difficulties faced by Athletic and similarly-sized clubs in League One, Newton believes Dickov has pulled together an effective squad that can still improve.

“When you have experienced players like Shefki Kuqi and Zander Diamond who have played at a high level, the advice is there for younger players and it is up to them to take it on board,” he said.

“Shefki's attention to detail is spot-on. It is like he looks at every game through a microscope and he is frighteningly professional.”