Rooney: The deal is done

ADAM ROONEY: his signing adds significantly to Athletic’s striking options.

ATHLETIC today completed the signing of striker Adam Rooney in a two-year-deal.

The Dublin-born forward (25) had been involved in a protracted dispute with Swindon over a pre-contract signed when joining the club on loan from Birmingham last season.

But problems have been ironed out and Rooney - who has impressed on trial in pre-season - has finally signed a contract.

Boss Lee Johnson is hoping his new-look team will set the fans alight this season: optimism is sweeping through the ranks of supporters following an encouraging unbeaten run of pre-season friendlies.

Following the capture of new attacking talent such as James Dayton, Sidney Schmeltz, Charlie Macdonald and Jonson Clarke-Harris and now Rooney, the Athletic boss is hoping the fans will respond.

He said: “We’re missing a stand on one side, which will kill a bit of the atmosphere, but these are exciting times for everyone. The fans can see we’ve got pacy, attack-minded players.

“Ideally we will be playing good, positive football on the floor. I’m not saying we’re going to win every game 3-0; but my mentality is to go out and try to win every game.”



ATHLETIC’S two-for-one ticket promotion for the home Carling Cup first round tie against Derby County next Tuesday has sold out.