You’re in the Army now

ANTON RODGERS: another chance to impress Athletic boss Lee Johnson.

ANTON Rodgers and Edijs Joksts were on board this morning as Athletic’s squad rose at dawn ahead of three days of Army-style training on Merseyside.

Former Chelsea trainee midfielder Rodgers, and Latvia under-21 international centre-back Joksts are the only surviving trialists to make it into the second week of pre-season training.

Of the squad which drew 2-2 with Dinamo Bucharest on Friday, ex-Celtic goalkeeper Robbie Thomson has departed, as has midfield man Danny Racchi.

Unlucky Momar N’Diaye’s five minutes on the field at Leigh Sports Village before injury look like being the only glimpse Athletic fans will get of the Senegalese striker. He has returned to France for treatment for a torn hamstring.

Johnson says the players among a 21-strong group at Altcar near Sefton can expect a few surprises during the three-day stay.

“The purpose is to gain fitness, to get players to realise where their 100 per cent mark is and to get the players team spirit — especially important with the new players we have.

“There will be a mixture of activities, including some aspects the lads won’t be expecting.”

An Army physical training instructor will be in charge of a few sessions during the stay, which will include a private game against an Army team.

“As a footballer, the worst thing you will come up against is the crowd booing you,” added Johnson. “In the Army, it is death. In both cases you have to be able to look your mate in the eye and know that there is someone covering your back. Trust is vital.

“I’m looking forward to it as well. It is something different. I’ll be learning a lot; it’s good to get everyone out of their comfort zone.”

Athletic’s next public pre-season friendly is at Curzon Ashton on Monday, July 15 (7pm kick-off).