Latics’ salute

ATHLETIC chief executive Neil Joy has heaped praise on boss Paul Dickov, who celebrates two years in the job tomorrow.

The Scot succeeded Dave Penney in the summer of 2010, since when he has steered his side to the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy area final and a memorable — and money-spinning — FA Cup visit to Liverpool.

While Joy acknowledged the final placings in npower League One could have been better, he reiterated his belief that Athletic have one of the hottest properties in the game.

He said: “I would class the two years Paul has been manager as a success. We have all been disappointed with our finishing positions in the division, but under the circumstances and with the obstacles he has faced, we possess one of the best young managers in football.

“It is well documented how highly Paul is regarded by everyone at Oldham Athletic and in football as a whole, and from my point of view it is a pleasure to work alongside him.”

Dickov and Joy have held long meetings this week as they mould the squad and finalise Athletic’s pre-season schedule.

An influx of new signings is hardly likely until forwards Shefki Kuqi, Robbie Simpson and Filipe Morais and midfielder James Wesolowski indicate where they want to play next season.

But replacements for the departed Kieran Lee, Chris Taylor, Zander Diamond and Reuben Reid are sure to be high on the agenda. The future of goalkeeper Alex Cisak remains unclear.


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