Latics want Taylor to stay

CHRIS TAYLOR: the Athletic forward won’t rush into a decision over the signing of a new contract.

Forward mulls over new contract offer
A NEW contract is in the offing for Chris Taylor. The winger signed a three-year deal back in 2009 which runs out next summer.

And with Taylor turning 25 next month, Athletic would not be due any compensation should he choose to move on.

“I spoke to Chris and he knows we would like him to sign a new contract,” said Athletic manager Paul Dickov, who took an 18-strong squad to Bournemouth today.

“He is thinking it over at the minute and it is the same with Kieran (Lee) as well.

“We want to keep the majority of our better players here for a long time, to build something here.”

Athletic have previously turned down substantial bids for Taylor, who hit the 250-appearance mark earlier in the campaign, including one from Scunthorpe last season.

While keen to keep him and Lee at the club, cash-strapped Athletic may feel they need to cash in on the player should the chance arise.

Taylor, who made his debut in 2006, is in no hurry to leave. He said: “It is early days, but I have had a brief chat with the gaffer who has told me he wants me to stay, which I was delighted to hear.

“I am thinking things through, but can’t rush into a decision as it is an important point of my career.

“I am happy here, however, and like working with the gaffer.”

As for Lee, Dickov rates his right-back — scorer of a terrific goal against Chesterfield last week — as his consistently-best performer since arriving at the club.

“He is a quiet lad off the pitch and is a credit to himself,” Dickov added. When he signed his contract last year, it was the easiest contract I have dealt with as a manager. He said yes straight away and it was done in five minutes. He just gets on with his football and is never a problem.”

Carl Winchester (thigh) is out of tomorrow’s squad, with James Tarkowski included as his replacement.

Josh Parker is approaching match fitness after a 60-minute run-out in the reserves this week, Reuben Reid is making good progress and Bradley Diallo is “three or four weeks away”.



DESPITE initial interest from clubs, Athletic were unable to send out any of their fringe players on loan deals on deadline day.