Simon Corney said, “It's proving very difficult to find people who are available and who would strengthen the team. We've asked about lots of players, but either their clubs won't let them go or they aren't at the level of match fitness we need for Saturday. Others have been offered to us, but there's no point bringing in bodies for the sake of it - that would just tie up more funds. We need to improve the squad by adding quality, rather than signing other clubs' problem players. If that means paying very good money, which it almost certainly will, we don't have a problem spending it. We need reinforcements quickly, and Brian Talbot is working very hard to find them.”

Corney emphasised that the funds would be available for wages which means that transfer fees are out of the question. Athletic have never replace the influential Paul Murray (pictured) and have struggled all season. The good news is that both David Lee and Danny Boshell should be available for Saturday’s visit of Barnsley.