Reece aims to become a pass master

REECE BROWN . . . his style complements the no-nonsense approach of defensive partner Jean-Yves Mvoto.

Having so many players — seven — unfit at once has caused a huge headache for Athletic manager Paul Dickov.

With options a rarity amid a slimmed-down squad, square pegs have been firmly shoved into round holes.

Right-footed Reece Brown is far too polite to say as much, but it was clear against Yeovil and Rochdale that emergency left-back was not his favourite position.

"It is completely different to right-back, but I just get on with it," said the 20 year old.

The way he played in his first appearance for the club, at Sheffield United, as a holding midfielder promised much.

And while his star dimmed a little while treading an unfamiliar path, Brown's efforts in his more natural centre-back role at Victoria Park showed what an asset the on-loan Manchester United player he can be.

Partnering Jean-Yves Mvoto in the absence of suspended James Tarkowski, Brown steadily grew into the game. By the end he looked entirely comfortable in sweeping up behind the imposing Mvoto.

"I like to get on the ball and look for the pass. It is how I have been brought up to play for United.

In helping Athletic to only a second clean sheet in 11 matches, Brown’s silk-and-steel partnership with Mvoto was sufficiently promising that it could remain intact — despite Tarkowski's aailability — for the visit of Bournemouth tomorrow.



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