Right move

Photo: Pictures by ALAN HOWARTH

STANDING TALL . . . Chris Iwelumo gets a hug from Lee Croft and James Wesolowski after scoring Athletic’s third goal against MK Dons.

TONY Philliskirk says getting the right manager for Athletic is more important than ever - and has put his weight behind Iain Dowie.

Despite guiding the team to a convincing 3-1 win over MK Dons on Saturday, head of youth Philliskirk (47) does not believe he is being considered.

“I have heard Dowie’s name bandied about,” said Philliskirk, who was Dowie’s assistant at Athletic prior to his departure in 2003.

“He is an excellent manager and an excellent coach and I think that is something the teams needs.

“I have had conversations with chairman Simon Corney. He thinks this is a massive appointment for the club.

“It is really important to get the right man, who will integrate the youth.

“We know the financial situation. Clubs like ours, in my opinion, have to rely on bringing players through to sell them on to become financially viable.

“I hope Simon thinks I do a good job in developing young players. But there has to be a transition from when they leave the under-18s to the first team and I think it has stalled lately.

“This is a great opportunity for the club to get that in place.”