Latics try to plug team gaps

REECE BROWN

Dickov may be tempted to go back for Brown
BUILDING from the back is the name of the game for Athletic after the departures of Kieran Lee, Zander Diamond, Paul Black and loanee Reece Brown.

Midfield trio Chris Taylor, James Wesolowski and Filipe Morais are yet to indicate where their futures lie but with four first-team defenders already out of the exit door, the backline demands urgent attention.

Brown’s impact at centre-half towards the end of his loan spell from Manchester United was one of the few plus points in a disappointing climax to the last campaign.

After a man-of-the-match display in the goalless draw at Bury the 20-year-old admitted he craves regular first-team football.

He would almost certainly welcome another stint at the club should Dickov make a move for the composed stopper.

As for the void left by two-time player of the year Lee, experienced full-back Nicky Hunt (28) is an option following his release from Preston North End.

Should wages not provide a stumbling block, snapping up a former England under-21 international with top-flight experience would represent a shrewd bit of business by Athletic.




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