Lee’s summer talent search

ONE FOR THE FUTURE: Rhys Turner could make “a big impact” says Lee Johnson.

ATHLETIC manager Lee Johnson has revealed his summer shopping list, with FOUR main priorities identified — including an experienced striker.

Jonathan Grounds’ departure on a free transfer means Johnson is in the hunt for a new first-choice left-back. David Worrall is back at parent club Rotherham, and his chance of returning to Boundary Park is in the balance. If he doesn’t return, Johnson will need to introduce a new right-sided midfield man.

The third major priority hinges on whether or not player of the season James Wesolowski accepts his contract offer. If not, Johnson’s sights will be trained elsewhere for a central midfielder of similar standing.

Up front, the loss of Charlie MacDonald means a wise head will be needed to complement the likes of Jonson Clarke-Harris and Danny Philliskirk. Johnson has “irons in the fire”, he says.

The manager is also hoping for good things from his £20,000 capture from Stockport, Rhys Turner. The teenage forward made a couple of appearances for the first team after his mid-season arrival and Johnson has seen enough to convince him Turner could be a success next season.

“We have high hopes for him, but we are not exactly sure when he will be ready for the first team,” said the manager. “He could have a big impact.”

Johnson said he isn’t currently looking either at freed Walsall forward Craig Westcarr or released Colchester right-back Brian Wilson, since he already has cover with Genseric Kusunga, James Wilson and Brown, assuming the last of those signs a new contract.



ST MIRREN has parted company with manager Danny Lennon. The move could spell trouble for Athletic’s chances of bringing Gary Harkins back to the club. Harkins wasn’t in Lennon’s plans, but it could be a new boss will want to use his services.