Roughyeds set for ‘major changes’

OLDHAM chairman Chris Hamilton has promised Roughyeds fans that plans for life in League 1 next year are well underway, hinting that there could be ‘major changes’ at the club.

His side return to the sport’s third tier after two years in the Championship and will lose out on around £100,000 in central funding as a result.

“We’re already planning for next season, but we are still waiting for information from the RFL about the structure of League 1 in 2018,” said Hamilton.

“The League 1 Cup has already gone. In their wisdom, clubs have decided to do away with that, which is a shame given that it provided an opportunity for third-tier clubs to win silverware.

“I think it is important to let supporters know that getting ready for next season in League 1 will involve even more planning than if we were still in the Championship because of what will potentially be a major upheaval of everything that has been in place for the past two years.”

Hamilton revealed discussions are ongoing regarding the make-up of Oldham’s squad and coaching staff. He said: “Key factors such as coaching staff, the signing of players, the recruitment of support staff and a home venue have all to be addressed.

“We know fans are keen to be informed of what’s happening.

“They can rest assured that as soon as we are in a position to release any definitive information whatsoever we will do so, but as stated earlier, preparations are underway and we have a lot of things to finalise over the course of the next few weeks.”