Dickov reveals shock tactics

ATHLETIC manager Paul Dickov reckons if his men fight for every inch tomorrow, the 2,500 fans travelling with the side will push Latics to an FA Cup shock for Nottingham Forest.

The awful recent run isn’t the most promising background for the cup tie. But Dickov wants to use the loss of three of his coaching staff as a way to bring the remaining squad and management together.

"Bring it on," said Dickov. “There are a lot of people coming to watch us and we go with a siege mentality trying to win the game. The one thing we are is in it together.

"We go in with a positive frame of mind. It will be a really big day for us. If we get through, it is massive for the club financially.

"We will go there and have a right good go at it. We know if we defend properly, we have got match winners in the team. If they are not quite at it and we are at our best, we’ve always got a chance."

Dickov has Robbie Simpson back after suspension and he is in contention to start alongside captain Dean Furman in midfield.

Cristian Montano is out long-term. The winger has a scan on a suspected torn thigh today.

Dickov indicated there may not be the budget to bring in new players on loan, but suggest striker Matt Derbyshire may be back soon

The striker spoke with Dickov yesterday and said if no permanent deal comes up this month, Athletic is his first choice for a further loan.

Reece Wabara's loan is up after the Forest game, but he too may be back : "Reece wants to stay and he has told us that already," Dickov said. "He is a big player for us."