Black maintains a sense of dignity

Paul Black in action for Tranmere

PAUL Black was determined not to let bitterness get the better of him when shown the door at Athletic in the summer.

The Middleton-born left-back's career at Boundary Park was brought to an end when manager Paul Dickov deemed him surplus to requirements at the end of an injury-ruined 2011-12 season.

Black's positive attitude has since been rewarded. Though he has only made two substitute appearances for new club Tranmere Rovers, the 22-year-old former Crompton House pupil has been able to bask in the reflected glory of an amazing opening to the season by his new employers.

"At the time, I was at the stage of my career where it maybe needed to happen," said Black – who played 70 times for Athletic in total, making his debut aged 17 against Huddersfield and scoring once against Southend – of his release.

"I try not to look at things in negative terms — there is no point getting your head down as it doesn't achieve anything.

"There is no doubt I was a bit disappointed to leave. I had grown up with Oldham and I still admire the people and the club, but it is the way football is."

The idea behind Ronnie Moore's swoop for Black was that he would replace outgoing left-back David Buchanan, who left in the close season to join Preston.

A thigh problem stalled early-campaign progress and another setback followed when Black picked up a niggling calf injury in a reserves match against Manchester United.

He missed the win at Hartlepool on Tuesday and describes himself as being "touch and go" in terms of availability for tomorrow's return to a club he holds plenty of affection for.

"I am desperate to play. But I have to be sensible," Black admitted. "It is up to the manager.