Manager John Sheridan gave his thoughts ahead of tomorrow's game against Northampton Town.
The Cobblers sit four points ahead of Latics in 16th position and a win will close the gap to only a point but Sheridan admitted there was little between the two teams.He said: "A lot of teams are similar in this division. They are a team in and around us so they will be wary of where they are in the league.
"They are a bit more comfortable than us but they know if they don't pick up the results, they can get dragged into it.
"Likewise, if they get a result against us, they know they can move further away so it's a tough game.
"Every game is tough but every game we are capable of winning so that's what we're going to try and do."
Athletic are unbeaten in four games and have managed to close the gap on teams above them.
"People were probably looking two or three weeks ago looking at ourselves, Swindon Town, Bury but all of a sudden, you've got Gillingham, Northampton, Port Vale who have got dragged into it now," Sheridan commented.
"They're all in there and fighting so I only want to look after us. We're picking up points, albeit I'd like three from each game, but to pick two points up from two tough games is pleasing."
Anthony Gerrard is back in contention tomorrow night after serving his suspension.
"He is important to us," Sheridan admitted. "He has the experience and he is vocal. He can only add to what we already have.
"I think Brian Wilson has been excellent in the two games that he's played for us in central defence, and they have kept two clean sheets so it's not a necessity that he's straight back in the team but you've got to look at him due his experience and know-how of the game.
"He keeps other players around him on their toes and it's a big plus to have him back."
Watch the full interview on Latics PlayerHD.