Hall renews contract

Last updated : 20 January 2003 By The Chairman
Athletic have kept true to their word by offering star defender Fitz Hall an extended contract to keep him at Boundary Park. Hall, who has been chased by a host of Premiership clubs, joined the Latics from Chesham United for £20,000
in March 2002 and has made a string of excellent performances.


Alan Hardy said, “Discussions with the player's agent have been going on since before Christmas and we are pleased that we have been able to conclude an agreement that extends Fitz's contract by a further 12 months until June 2005. There has been speculation about a host of Premiership Clubs being interested in Fitz but I hope this move by the club demonstrates our desire to hold on to our better players in an effort to ensure our goal of promotion is achieved.”


A delighted Dowie said, “I am delighted with the announcement that Fitz Hall has committed his future to the Club to at least 2005. He is a player that has been at the heart of our recent success and I for one am in no doubt that one day he will grace the Premiership. His professionalism and dedication to the daily training epitomises his desire for him to make the best of his ability.”


Chairman Chris Moore enthused, “I am absolutely delighted that Fitz has committed himself to the club until 2005. Fitz is one of our greatest assets and under Iain Dowie's guidance I am sure he will go from strength to strength. The
Club's financial position is still precarious. However I would like to take this opportunity to properly thank all of our fans who have supported us. In addition to supporting the team during both home and away matches, the club has
benefitted from the widespread and very real financial support in the schemes we have run. I look forward to the remainder of the season with extreme enthusiasm and I know that Iain Dowie and the squad can finish what they have started. Promotion looms and what a fantastic result it will be by the end of the season. Please continue with you invaluable support.”