Iain Dowie is poised to take at least two Manchester City players on loan. Defender Stephen Jordan and forward Chris Shuker both need first-team football and Dowie could guarantee that as he currently has only 17 professionals. Four of his players are out through injury and Ernie Cooksey is currently serving a ban. Jordan is 21 and 6 feet tall. He spent three months on loan at Cambridge last season. Shuker is also 21 and made four Premiership appearances for Kevin Keegan. Dowie is also closing in on a back up goalkeeper who should arrive on loan before Saturday’s game.
David Beharall has undergone his surgery to repair tendonitis in his right knee. The recouperation period for the surgery is usually around six weeks but Beharall had the same operation on his other knee previously and he recovered well from it. He is expected to be back in action before the six weeks are up. Dowie said, “The surgery appeared to go well and we are hopeful that it will clear the problem up. It's possible that Dave could have played on with the injury but he could then have broken down later on in the season forcing a lengthier lay-off so it was decided that it would be best for him to have the operation now.”
Dean Holden and David Eyres are both doubtful for Saturday’s opener and other players are also receiving treatment. Paul Wheatcroft and Andy Bell have completed their extended trials at Athletic but they will not be offered contracts and have returned home.
Striker Chris Killen (pictured) is hoping to be available for Saturday after missing the pre-season games. Commenting on his performances last season Killen said, “Injuries didn't help and I didn't settle properly. I didn't get off to a good start and was far from happy with my form but I plan to put that right this time.” Dowie added, “We're hopeful that Chris will be passed fit. If he is he will certainly come into consideration despite his lack of match practice. Chris is one of the most naturally fit players at the club and provided his foot gets the okay he will play some part of the match as we need everybody possible with the squad down to the size it is.”
Athletic will wear the same home strip as last season but will wear the Horners name as they are the new sponsors. Problems may arise in getting the kits completed before Saturday’s game. The kits need to be brought from the Sparta factory in China but time is running out. If the shirts do not arrive the Latics will be forced to use last season’s shirts. Any betting that the Torex name will be covered?