Latics eyes on striker

Leon Clarke has emerged as a target for Athletic

LEON Clarke could be the next arrival at Boundary Park, following Athletic’s capture of Lee Croft for a a season on loan.

The confirmed departure this week of Shefki Kuqi has left a vacancy in the ranks for a goal scorer.

And after proving his credentials by scoring nine goals in 14 appearances for struggling Chesterfield last season, 27-year-old Clarke appears to fit the bill.

The Wolverhampton-born striker only joined Charlton at the turn of the year and found his path to the first team blocked. He spent the last two months of the season helping Crawley gain promotion from League Two.

Though there appears to be a clar field for latics, the clubs are said to be some distance from finalising terms. Should Clarke arrive, Croft’s role will be to provide ammunition for him from the right wing.

As far as Latics manager Paul Dickov is concerned, Croft is too good for Athletic - and he has asked him to prove it.

“Lee is a player I know well,” said the Athletic boss. “He is someone we feel will give us quality on the right-hand side. He has got the experience of playing Premier League and Championship football. He is, minimum, a Championship player, and that is what we will get.

“He is turning down European football and the Scottish Premier League to come here.”



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