JD Sports Fashion said it is on track to deliver annual profit in line with market expectations following a strong Christmas trading period.

The UK retailer's like-for-like sales for the group's core Fascia stores in the 48 weeks to January 4th 2014 are "marginally ahead" of the previous year, according to a trading update on Friday.

The group said it was "pleased" with this year's performance in the Sports Fascias and remains focused on improving the performance of other Fascias within the firm.

"Christmas 2013 has seen yet another very robust performance from our core Sports Fascias," said Executive Chairman Peter Cowgill.

"Throughout recent years of considerable change and expansion for the group, the core Sports Fascias' proposition has continued to be developed and enhanced.

"I am delighted that the most recent six weeks' trading has continued to give confidence for the future. I also expect considerable further progress elsewhere in the group in 2014."

RD

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