Latics set sights on new faces

Athletic could add to their squad before tomorrow’s emergency loan window slams shut at 5pm.

Boss Paul Dickov, boosted by last night’s dramatic 2-1 win at Hartlepool, has targets in mind but is unlikely to bring in fresh faces unless he can usher players towards the Boundary Park exit.

To that end, Portsmouth are said to be lining up a loan move for out-of-favour Athletic goalkeeper Alex Cisak.

Athletic chief executive Neil Joy said: “Any deals involving Cisak and Portsmouth or any other players and clubs will have to be done before tomorrow’s 5pm deadline.

“We could do some business, but bringing one or two in will probably hinge on moving one or two out of the club.

“The manager is working on it.”

Joy also denied reports suggesting Cisak’s demotion to the substitutes’ bench since September is for contractual reasons.

He added: “It is purely down to the fact that Dean Bouzanis caught the eye and has done very well since coming into the side.”

Cisak was a regular for Dickov’s team last season, making 47 appearances.

He faced his suitors earlier on in this campaign, keeping a clean sheet in Athletic’s 1-0 triumph at Fratton Park.

Financially-troubled Pompey, still without a permanent manager following Michael Appleton’s exit to Blackpool, need a shot-stopper after temporary number one Mikkel Andersen’s return to Reading.

Should interim boss Guy Whittingham firm up his interest, it could provide Dickov with the opportunity to delve into the market himself.

Reports from the South coast suggest the 23-year-old sits at the top of Whittingham’s shortlist of targets.

Portsmouth are reluctant to bank on ex-Halifax man Simon Eastwood avoiding injury and suspension during a long and testing season, as he is

the only recognised ’keeper in their 20-man squad.

Whittingham said: ‘We have got a couple lined up to replace Mikkel, but they are in the stages of ‘will clubs let us or won’t they let us’?

“However, they are lined up ready to come on loan.”

ATHLETIC'S under-18s are at home to Coventry City in the second round of the FA Youth Cup tonight (7pm kick-off).

Admission for the game at Boundary Park is £4 adults, £2 concessions.