Decision time for Latics’ ‘main man’

JOSE BAXTER . . . has “loved every minute” of his spell with Athletic.

JOSE Baxter may well be playing his last game for Athletic tomorrow.

The 11-goal striker, a massive hit since his arrival on a short-term contract, becomes a free agent next week and has his pick of a number of npower Championship clubs.

Several offers have already been lodged with his agent and Baxter will find it difficult to turn down wages Athletic won’t be able to match.

But the striker insists he hasn’t yet made any firm decision.

"There are a few clubs sniffing round, but it is not going to put me off my game," said Baxter. "I’ll concentrate on the game against Brentford first then see what happens.

"I have loved every minute of it (with Athletic). The lads have been great and the manager top-drawer — and the fans."

Manager Paul Dickov is still trying to persuade the former Everton player his season would be best played out at Boundary Park.

That would include the high-profile FA Cup clash with Liverpool this month — the team Baxter grew up in Bootle supporting.

"Being a Liverpool fan, I saw the draw and thought 'here we go'," admitted the 20-year-old.

"It has made me want to stay — which is why I am not sure what is going to happen just yet.

"I’ve never had a full year of games, so it would do me no harm staying here.

"After Saturday's game, I will speak to the gaffer and speak to my agent and see what is

happening. I have had three or four offers, but if it is to move away and not play I would rather stay here, play games and get that season behind me."

One factor still in Athletic's favour is Baxter's lack of a driving licence: his dad drives him to training and matches. But that wouldn’t stop him moving to another North-West club.

Dickov hopes to steer his talisman towards a new deal, emphasising that Athletic are tailored to his talents in a way other clubs may not be.

"A lot of Championship clubs are interested. If he did go, who could blame him? He has been fantastic for us. We haven't given up hope yet. Jose needs to play in teams where he is the main man - as he is here."