Johnson heads north in bid for new blood

Lee Johnson: Scottish search

Athletic’s manager used a day off from training this week to travel to Scotland to see a reserves match in the afternoon and former club Kilmarnock against St Mirren, as well as talking to players’ agents.

While recruitment plans have been put on hold while the club’s status in League One remains uncertain, Johnson believes Scotland’s top league contains a well of untapped talent.

He also admitted the drive to bring in better players over the summer will be a careful one — a club of Athletic’s meagre resources can’t afford mistakes.

“Scotland is an area with good value in it for our level of wage structure,” he explained.

“People in England frown on the SPL, but there are some good players up there. There could be a possible opportunity — or not. But I would rather know the script than not know it.

“I have a huge list of possible players, the wages they might command and where they come from.

“It is important for a club like us to pick the right ones. If we make mistakes, which are inevitable, we have to make sure we minimise them.

“The question now is of getting that extra quality in certain areas needed to go the whole hog.”

In tomorrow’s clash the only injury doubt is over Lee Croft’s foot, which has this week been placed in a protective structure.

“We are hopeful he will be alright. It is only an impact injury and I am sure he will be okay,” said Johnson.