Bouzanis still full of fight

Dean Bouzanis: teams need spirit

THOSE doubting Athletic’s fighting spirit to haul themselves out of danger can't look towards Dean Bouzanis for reassurance of their beliefs.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper admits he hasn’t always had a smooth ride this season. But amid personal and team inconsistencies, one constant of the Sydney-born star has been his keenness to impress.

The desire to succeed runs deep in the former Liverpool starlet's blood.

"I am a very passionate player," said Bouzanis. "I am thankful to Oldham for giving me the chance to play first-team football, to be in the sticks to save one or to celebrate with the lads.

"I am massive on team spirit. Without it, teams fail. At the moment, we are not doing the best. But at least we are a close-knit group where we all stick in for each other.

"When I made a mistake against Colchester, Jose Baxter was the first one to turn around after he had scored and say 'that was for you'. Things like that help as they give you confidence."

Bouzy has nailed down a first-team spot at the expense of Alex Cisak — who last term looked rock-solid as number one.

"I came here on non-contract terms, worked my way up and I am pleased that the previous gaffer gave me the chance to become number one. I have played 38 games and have enjoyed every bit of it.

"There have been ups and a few downs, but you will get that with the position that we are in, which is not good."

The majority of Athletic's players, Bouzanis included, will join the vast pile of men out of contract come the end of June.

But while speculation links certain members of Athletic's squad to pastures new, he has eyes only for staying on.

"I am out of contract and trying to play for a new one," Bouzanis added. "I can't speak for the rest of the lads. I am happy at Oldham, doing everything I can to get a new deal."