Business as usual for Latics defender Byrne

CLIFF Byrne is focused on preparing for the coming season with Athletic despite interest from former club Scunthorpe.

The experienced defender (31), who was hard at work with the rest of the squad in a session at Oldham Boxing and Personal Development Centre, was publicly courted by Iron boss Brian Laws two months ago.

But a move back to the Glanford Park club, where he became a legend across 332 appearances spanning a decade has not yet transpired. So as far as Byrne is concerned, it’s Latics business as usual.

“There was a lot of speculation and the manager rang me about the interest,” said Byrne, who has a season left to run on his Athletic deal.

“But I am firmly an Oldham player. I enjoy working with the management and anyone who comes to watch training or to see me play will tell you no different.”

Byrne is currently prime candidate to line up with James Tarkowski in central defence come the opening clash of the season at Stevenage on August 3.

Before then Athletic have three friendlies to play, starting with a game against Macclesfield at Boundary Park tomorrow (3pm).

“We are getting closer to the start of the season. We are tuning in every day and it is becoming more and more intense in training,” Byrne added. “We know there are only 11 places in the team. These friendlies will hopefully help us gather momentum we can carry into the season.”

Manager Lee Johnson is likely to tinker with the line-ups that started games this week at Curzon Ashton and Burnley.

“I will be looking to mix it up a little bit,” Johnson said. “I want to give everyone a fair chance and give all the players time on the pitch.”