Goal-ace Rhys is ready for next level

EYE FOR GOAL . . . Rhys Turner is determined to continue his scoring feats for Athletic.

NEW Athletic striker Rhys Turner is hoping his talent for bagging goals gets the chance to flourish at Sky Bet League One level.

Turner (18) joined Lee Johnson’s squad on Friday morning after his undisclosed fee switch from Skrill Conference North outfit Stockport, and immediately hopped on the team coach to Swindon.

He wasn’t available to play due to a nagging injury, but should soon be back and raring to go.

Turner, who has signed an 18-month Athletic contract, said: “I’ve always had a knack for scoring goals, so it would be nice if I could carry that on at Oldham. It’s a big step up for me and a huge challenge, but I’m ready for it. I hope I get the chance to show what I’m all about.

“It’s been a whirlwind few months really. I only joined Stockport six months ago, but I thought I did okay there. I’m grateful to the gaffer for giving me this opportunity.”

Turner scored 63 goals for Myerscough during the 2012-13 season, and bagged two in five appearances for the England Colleges outfit.

Athletic boss Lee Johnson clearly likes what he sees in Turner, particularly in the teenager’s pace and bravery: “He’s very quick and we like him,” Johnson said. “He needs development — he is only 18 years old. So we can’t expect too much, too early. But he can certainly give us something.

“He is a good finisher, calm and quick. We will have to work with him. Jumping up three divisions is not going to be easy, but we believe in him.”