Latics in fight to keep Kilkenny

Last updated : 31 December 2007 By Dave Moore
Athletic are in a desperate fight to keep the services of on-loan Neil Kilkenny after Birmingham City have agreed to allow him to move out. Their main rivals are reported to be League One Doncaster Rovers who have, according to reports, already agreed a fee with Birmingham for the talented midfielder who is free after todays game at Leeds United. Kilkenny has played against Doncaster four times this season and scored against them in the FA Cup.

Athletic already have a deal on the table that would make the 22 year old the highest paid player at Boundary Park and Alan Hardy admitted, "We will obviously be very disappointed if Neil chooses not to stay, but we understand that he must do what he feels is best for him personally."