Cisak signs....

THREE KEEPERS: Simpson, Bouzanis, Cisak. One down...

ALEX Cisak is now contracted to Athletic until the end of next season — but the goalkeeper could still be heading out of the Boundary Park door.

Athletic had an option to extend his existing two-year deal for another year, which it has now done. That means if Cisak leaves — and manager Lee Johnson expects him to — Athletic will be entitled to a transfer fee.

“I think he will end up moving on; I am confident enough to say that,” Johnson told the Chronicle.

If there are no takers for Cisak before the start of the season, he will be at best a back-up ‘keeper again.

Last season the Krakow-born player, an Australia under-20s international, cut an unhappy figure after losing his place to Dean Bouzanis.

On his recall from loan to Portsmouth following a red card for Bouzanis — himself since released by Athletic - Cisak expressed regret that his stay on the South Coast had been cut short.

Meanwhile, Johnson says his next quartet of signings are vital . . . and all four will be at Boundary Park by the middle of next month.

Athletic’s manager spent this week contacting clubs to find out who is available - and affordable.

No signings are expected in the next couple of weeks, but Johnson says “without doubt” there will significant new additions by mid-July.

“The next four signings will go a long way towards shaping our team,” said Johnson. “Things are happening behind the scenes. The fans should have confidence in the work being done.”



ATHLETIC will play a home friendly against FA Cup holders Wigan. The pre-season game against the relegated Wembley conquerers of Manchester City — is at Boundary Park on July 20.

mattchambers@oldham-chronicle.co.uk