More backroom pruning needed

Last updated : 11 February 2003 By Dave Moore

Athletic are being forced to lose two more of their backroom staff in an effort to curb spiralling losses of £200,000 a month. Dowie’s staff consists of assistant David Cross and first-team coach Tony Philliskirk. Also on the books are John Harbin (fitness conditioner/sports psychologist), Andy Rhodes (goalkeeping coach), Gil Prescott (first-team scout and head of the School of Excellence), Bill Urmson (youth team) and Tommy Wright (youth team assistant). John Sheridan is also still registered as a player.

Dowie said, “Having to sit down with two people is a millstone around my neck, but I’m the manager and I have to do it. Finances give us no other choice. Finances are very, very tight and these are difficult times. I can't tweak the squad much more and there still has to be cost cutting. If you want a good side you need good players. If you want a great side you need great players. We need a side that will take us to promotion. I have given the situation, which is really bad, a lot of thought, believe me. But the club needs to be in a break-even position and it is going to be fantastically difficult, I can't do it overnight. We are talking about people's jobs and those I work with have been absolutely
fantastic. They have my utmost respect and I hope I have theirs, but decisions have to be made and I will make them, It is my job and it has to be done.”