Simpson set to stake goalkeeper claim

HIGH HOPES . . . teenage goalkeeper Luke Simpson

LUKE Simpson could get his chance to stake a claim as Athletic’s number two goalkeeper next season.

The highly-rated 18 year old is set to understudy a new number one under manager Lee Johnson.

Despite Alex Cisak signing a contract extension, Johnson doesn’t see the Australian as his first-choice and he remains likely to depart this summer. The aim remains to bring in two new keepers — one a rookie.

“Luke might have his chance to stake a claim to be the number two goalkeeper,” said Tony Philliskirk, right-hand man to Johnson.

Opportunities are also likely for fellow youth-team products Danny Gosset and Joe Cooper. Chris Sutherland could get a chance to show Johnson what he is made of after recovering from injury.

“With Chris, the manager has not seen him play but Danny and Joe have done well. I certainly think they will be in with a chance, as it’s likely to be a smaller squad.”