Moore looks for defender

Although goalkeeper Michael Poke has had his loan spell from Southampton cut short due to a broken finger, Ronnie Moore considers it more important to sign a central defender. Moore enquired about Derby County’s 35 year old Bosnian International Muhamed Konjic. The Rams were prepared to allow Konjic to leave for one month but the Latics could not match his wage demands, even though Derby were prepared to pay half of his wages.

Moore said, “Konjic was exactly the sort of player we need. He is 6ft 3in and heads the ball as far as many players kick it. With our four main centre halves out, we lack a physical presence at the back and a player like Swailes, Haining or Branston who will win the ball. By next weekend we should have Guy Branston back and possibly also Adam Griffin and Stefan Stam so, hopefully, we will then be moving in the right direction. I am hoping we are having all our bad luck early in the season and, once we are over these problems, we will have a clean bill of health.”

It is hoped that Owen will be fit enough to return to the squad for Saturday’s home match against Huddersfield Town. Moore may switch Terrell Forbes to the centre of defence in an attempt to beef up the defence.