I want to stay

Photo: Alan Howarth

Jose Baxter raises his first to the Athletic faithful after scoring his side’s second goal against Kidderminster.

LIFE at Athletic is absolutely perfect for Jose Baxter, the red-hot striker has admitted.

A goal direct from a free-kick in the FA Cup win at Kidderminster on Saturday was the former Everton man’s sixth for the club.

Championship quartet Blackpool, Birmingham, Burnley and Ipswich are among those reportedly interested in snapping up the player once compared with Wayne Rooney — but the forward, without a club and on the football scrapheap before being brought in to Boundary Park, says he “definitely” wants to remain with Athletic permanently.

“I'm enjoying my football and loving every minute of it,” said Baxter, who added that talks over a possible long-term deal had not yet taken place.

“The gaffer, the coaches, the lads — every part of the club is top drawer and I couldn't ask for anything better.

“I'm getting fitter through working hard so hopefully my football just shines.”

PAUL Dickov is crossing his fingers that centre-back Cliff Byrne will be fit to face Bury at Boundary Park tomorrow night (7.45pm kick-off).

The centre-back was carried off the field inured in the second half at Aggborough.

With Jean-Yves Mvoto suspended for Athletic next two games, a quick recovery for Byrne is hoped for with little possibility of entering the loan market for defensive cover.


JAMES Wesolowski picked up his fourth booking of the season late on in the Kidderminster win.
The midfielder will incur a one-match suspension if he picks up another yellow card before December 31.



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