Weso 50-50 for return in Trophy tie

Genseric Kusunga: returns after ban

MIDFIELD dynamo James Wesolowski has a fighting chance of being back in Athletic’s team for tonight’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy clash with Chesterfield at Boundary Park.

The Aussie is rated a 50-50 shot to return for Athletic, who welcome back Genseric Kusunga after a three-match ban.

On the visitors’ front, the loss of one-time Athletic wing target Gary Roberts to injury is seen as a plus by Lee Johnson.

“Roberts is an excellent player,” said the Athletic boss. “He was someone I was interested in signing in the summer, but we were beaten by the finances of Chesterfield at the time.

“Kusunga has gone from strength to strength, is clear of injuries and he has been an excellent signing for us.

“What ‘Weso’ gives you is that extra bite that can sometimes make a difference between winning and losing a game.”

Paul Rachubka could again replace Mark Oxley in goal as he has in the other rounds, though that is a decision Johnson will leave until late.



ATHLETIC’S FA Cup second-round replay at Mansfield next Tuesday (7.45pm kick-off) will be

televised live by BT Sport. The stakes are high: the winners play Liverpool at Anfield.