The sky’s the limit

Jose Baxter: “We know deep down we can get promoted.”

HOT-shot Jose Baxter believes Athletic’s new-look squad has got what it takes to produce a promotion push this season.

Lee Johnson’s men will head south to Stevenage for the opening day of the Sky Bet League One campaign and, after Athletic’s unbeaten pre-season programme, Baxter is high on confidence.

The 21-year-old, Bootle-born ace said: “We know deep down that we can get promoted.

“We showed what we can do in our win against a Huddersfield side with some great players, and you wouldn’t have known we were the League One side.

“The gaffer wants us to play football. He’s got young kids in the side who are ambitious and it’s shown in our performances, that we are trusting each other with the ball. We know each other’s game and we are going upwards.

“For me there’s no such thing as a friendly match. Every player steps over that white line wanting to win and last weekend we did exactly that.”

After signing for Athletic from boyhood club Everton last summer, Baxter went on to enjoy a terrific 2012-13 season, scoring 15 times.

This summer the former Tranmere Rovers loan player has bagged three of Athletic’s 12 goals from five friendlies.

There will be increased competition for attacking places this season thanks to manager Johnson’s hectic wheeling and dealing.

That’s a situation Baxter welcomes: “If you don't play well, you know there’s someone on the bench who can take your place.

“You want competition in football – it keeps you on your toes and helps you to play better.

“We’ve got a few new faces in, but even the young lads who have been training with us have stepped up and they’ve been brilliant.

“Everything about the club feels good and there is a real buzz about the place.”