Latics boss in Hornets link

Dickov expected to stay put
ATHLETIC are offering no comment on rumours that manager Paul Dickov is a contender for the managerial role at Watford — but such a switch appears unlikely.

The Scot, who is currently involved in preparations for his second season in the hot-seat at Boundary Park, has been named in the national media as a possibility for the job at the Championship outfit, who saw previous boss Malky Mackay depart for the Vicarage Road club’s divisional rivals Cardiff City.

However, the current front-runner for the Hornets job is Sean Dyche and Dickov’s name has yet to appear in the betting markets.

The 38-year-old is currently working at Athletic on a 12-month rolling contract, with the promise of a new improved deal having been made public by chairman Simon Corney a month ago.

Athletic are awaiting final answers on contract offers from a number of players, including Reuben Hazell, Jean-Yves Mvoto and Paul Black.

Dickov spoke to the trio late last week and with just over a week to go until pre-season training starts, wants to know if the players are willing to commit to the club.

Meanwhile, Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy has said that the early fixtures line-up should provide a big financial boost to the club.

The first three npower League One home games see Sheffield United, Rochdale and Huddersfield visiting Boundary Park.

The effect should be to boost club coffers, thanks to expected bumper crowds that should result.

“We are delighted,” Hardy said. “There are pros and cons — many people will still be away on holiday — but there is no doubt they are attractive games.”

Athletic are also pleased that the home matches against divisional new-boys Bury and Preston also take place on Saturdays rather than in midweek, following a request made by the club to the Football League.