Left-back Jonathan Grounds has signed for the Latics from Middlesbrough on a two year deal after being released from the Riverside Stadium. The Latics boss described the deal as a coup as he had to beat off considerable competition to land the 24-year-old player of whom Dickov is expecting to play at a high footballing level. Grounds can also perform as a centre-half and his versatility will be a bonus to the squad.
Dickov said, "It is all credit to Jonathan's character that he decided to come here for less money. I believe Jonathan ought to be playing at least in the Championship and he still has a fantastic career ahead of him. When I knew Jonathan was available, I knew he was the right one and did everything to get him here. He is a very good footballer, is comfortable on the ball, good going forward as well as being able to defend. Jonathan is also a good lad who has a fantastic attitude. I saw him playing last season for Yeovil and he was one of the reasons why they went on their long, unbeaten run near the end of the season."