BLACKPOOL boss Steve McMahon has managed to attract Spanish Primera Liga side Athletic Bilbao to Bloomfield Road for a prestigious friendly.

The match will be played on Tuesday, August 7 as the final and only home pre-season game before the start of next season's Division 2 campaign.

The Spaniards who currently lie in 12th place in La Liga following a 3-1 defeat by Real Sociedad last weekend are also expected to play Newcastle Utd in a testimonial for Robert Lee on August 11 as part of their tour along with 1st Division West Bromwich Albion.

The club boasts a proud tradition since its formation in 1898, winning eight League championships and the Copa Del Raye - the Spanish equivalent of the FA Cup - 23 times, a record second only to the mighty Barcelona.

Steve McMahon said: "It's a very prestigious game and will be a great curtain raiser for us. It's a big game for the fans to enjoy -- they have some very top class players and it should be a really good night."