New boss Dave Penney will be at Athletic's game at Walsall this weekend - but only with a watching brief.

Darlington have confirmed that Penney has officially resigned from his position as manager of the Quakers, meaning he will not be present for their game against Chester.

Instead the new Latics gaffer will be in the stands at the Banks's Stadium as present boss Joe Royle looks to sign off with a victory against the Midlands outfit.

He will be at Boundary Park tomorrow to take a look at the present squad as Royle and his coaching staff go through final preparations ahead of the final game of 2008/09.

"Joe has prepared the team all week and he will take them for the game on Saturday," said Penney, who has signed a two-year contract with Athletic.

"I'll sit in the stands and watch without having to concentrate on trying to win the game; that's Joe's job.  I can have a a good look at what we've got.

"Hopefully the new manager watching will have everyone on their toes and we'll see a reaction of some kind.  I will be watching and it's human nature that the players will try to put a show on."