Wesolowski could start Trophy showdown

Paul Dickov: more time to get his injured players fit for Monday’s night’s game.

JAMES Wesolowski WILL need an operation on his troublesome shoulder — but could yet start in midfield for the crucial Chesterfield clash on Monday.

The Australian saw a specialist yesterday and has been told he can play on for the time being, despite suffering a pair of dislocations inside a month. The second occurred in the goalless draw with Exeter on Saturday.

The hope is that Wesolowski will able to get through the second leg of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, Northern final, in addition to the home clash with Leyton Orient and a midweek away fixture at Stevenage, before undergoing surgery.

Depending on the damage to the shoulder, the best-case scenario for the 24-year-old is that he is fit again inside six weeks — right in time for the Wembley final on Sunday, March 25, should Athletic get there.

The worst-case scenario is that Wesolowski will be absent for three months after the operation, effectively ending his season.

As for Dean Furman (knee), Zander Diamond (neck) and Robbie Simpson (hamstring), they were expected to train separately today from the rest of the squad.

“With the game being on Monday night, it gives us the chance to get them doing some strengthening with Jon (Guy) and also a bit of fitness work,” said Athletic manager Paul Dickov.

Meanwhile, Athletic are looking towards a big turn-out of support as Dickov’s men bid to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit against the Spireites.

The last time Athletic performed in front of the TV cameras on home soil, also on a Monday evening, the game attracted a crowd of 2,408 as MK Dons were beaten 2-1 in an npower League One encounter.

But with the chance to watch Athletic at world football’s most iconic venue now tantalisingly close, Athletic hope that supporters will turn out in fuller force to cheer on their side, rather than sitting at home to watch the game on television.

“The fans who turn up week-in, week-out, give us fantastic support,” Dickov added.

“We just hope that we can bring back a few who went across to support us at the Liverpool game.

“It really spurs the players on. It can make a massive difference to have them right behind the boys."

Athletic chief executive Neil Joy was part of a delegation visiting Wembley yesterday to go through arrangements in the event of Athletic progressing to the showpiece final.

“It certainly whetted the appetite,” said Joy. “It is potentially a great day out for everyone.

“We just hope that as many fans as possible come along on Monday night and help make it a great atmosphere at Boundary Park.

“With it being the Northern final and with such a big prize at stake, hopefully the supporters will turn out in their numbers.”