Around the grounds: Oldham

PRE SEASON:

Results have been promising with four victories out of five and four clean sheets, but the goals dried up once we met league opposition. Looking like Luke Beckett will be sorely missed!!!!!

SIGNINGS

Les Pogliacomi: Left us last season to join blackpool after Ronnie Moore stated he was surplus to requirements. However, new boss John Sheridan rated him, hence resigned him. On confidence he is arguably one of the best keepers in the division. Had a good pre season so far proving the hero in two shootout victories.

Gary Mcdonald: Signed from kilmarnock. Was described at one time the next big thing in scottish football. Has chipped in with a few goals too in pre season, hope he does more of the same.

Neil Wood: He arrived on trial and impressed sufficiently to earn a two year deal. Described as a very intelligent footballer and a definite improvement over what we already had.

Craig Rocastle: Signed from sheffield wednesday to do all the donkey work in midfield. Doesnt look too bad but wasnt held in high regard by any wednesday, barnsley or yeovil fan I have spoken too so far. Will have to wait and see.

Moussa Dabo: Sheridan watched him play for 15 mins and decided he was worth a 2 year deal. Hasnt featured so far due to injury but sounds promising.

PREDICTION

As far as oldham goes, I think we are looking at a season in mid table. However, depending on who, if anybody, is brought in to replace Luke Beckett will depend on whether we are
a) upper mid table chasing the playoff pack
OR
b) lower mid table looking nervously over our shoulders

As far as forest goes, I am unsure whether Colin Calderwood is the right man for the job, but I think anything less than a play off place this season for forest will and should be deemed a failure. I’d say defo a good bet for top 6 at least.

OVERALL

Will definitely be another very close season. I think Doncaster, Bristol City and forest will be fighting it out for the top two places, whilst Huddersfield, Swansea, Milwall, Crewe, Tranmere and us (if we sign a 15 goal a season striker and have better luck with injuries)

At the bottom, i think Rotherham, Cheltenham, Yeovil, Blackpool, Brentford, Carlisle and Leyton Orient will be fighting it out, count us in there too if we get injuries to key players.