Mvoto keen to open contract dialogue

AHEAD of the game: defender Jean-Yves Mvoto scores the last-gasp winner.

GOAL hero Jean-Yves Mvoto wants contract talks with Athletic - which could see him remain at Boundary Park.

The centre-back’s current deal runs out in the summer and so far no discussion has yet taken place over a new agreement. Club officials were waiting to see which division Athletic would play in next season.

Mvoto’s header settled Oldham’s season and safety in league one.

Now manager Lee Johnson can get on with his planning - and Mvoto, so impressive in the latter half of this season and a likely target for Championship clubs — is likely to be near the top of his wanted list.

“The manager and chairman have not talked about it yet,” said Mvoto (24). “This week or maybe after the season, it will be a bit easier. I am happy here. I live in Manchester and know everything here, so why not? Let’s sit and talk.”

Johnson is now able to reflect on what he considers the perfect introduction to management.

“Next year if we can add two or three in key positions and play how we have been doing, hopefully we can climb up the league and punch above our weight,” he said.

“That is what I am here to do. This is a fantastic club and I don’t think I could have picked a better one for my first job.”

One player Johnson would ideally go into next term with is on-loan Norwich midfield man Korey Smith.

“He is a good payer and I would love to have him,” said Johnson of Smith. “But a lot has to happen beforehand.”

Jimmy Nicholl has emerged as a contender for the role of Athletic'’ assistant manager. The ex-Manchester United defender (56), formerly a manager of Raith Rovers and Millwall, is currently assistant to Kenny Shiels at Kilmarnock, the SPL club Johnson signed for as a player 14 months ago.



mattchambers@oldham-chronicle.co.uk