Maguire mission

Trial striker given big chance to impress

DAN Maguire is trying his luck with Athletic in the hope of landing a dream professional contract.

The 20-year-old striker is due to arrive at Boundary Park tonight for a trial, after impressing club scouts with his scoring prowess for Blyth Spartans in the Evo-Stik Premier Division.

A quick, skilful forward, reigning supporters and players’ player of the year, Maguire has struck 18 goals already this season — including a hat-trick in a 6-2 win over Stafford.

He is in only his second season with the Northumberland club after making the step up from the Northern Alliance with Seaton Delaval Amateurs.

“Paul Murray was tipped off about him and we have had him watched a couple of times,” said Athletic manager Lee Johnson. “What’s the harm in getting him in? He will train tomorrow and we will see how he copes with it.

“Getting the right one is the trick — whether it be a willing runner, a goal scorer or someone who works the channels well.”

A statement on Blyth’s website reads: “Dan Maguire has outperformed in recent weeks and Oldham Athletic asked if he can attend their club this week for trials.

“The club has always had a policy of never putting barriers in the way of players moving to a higher level of football.”