Ahead of the visit of Oldham Athletic to The Lamex Stadium on Saturday, we spoke to BBC Radio Manchester's Mike Minay to get the lowdown on the Latics...
- First of all, how did the supporters receive the news with regards to Dino Maamria leaving the Club earlier this Summer?
"I don’t think a great number were enamoured with Dino. Although he came in and steadied the ship, keeping them comfortably above the relegation zone, the improvement in the team was satisfactory at best. Ultimately, a 19th place finish is not considered good enough by the fans or the board. At the same time, was it surprising that another Oldham manager had lost their job? It’s an issue the club have had since the days of Lee Johnson."
- How was the appointment of Harry Kewell received?
"There was an element of excitement – he’s a man who carries a lot of pedigree with his Premier League and Champions League history. He wants a chance to be successful, Oldham want success too."
- What are the hopes and expectations for Oldham supporters this season?
"Latics haven’t had a promotion for 30 years, they are desperate for some good news and positivity. If they got a top-half finish, and maybe a sniff of the play-offs, fans would go home very happy."
- How have the team looked in their opening games of the season?
"They have shown promise. But it has been Jekyll and Hyde. Against Carlisle, particularly the first half they were solid. However, since then defeats to Leyton Orient and Morecambe have shown some exposed holes in Latics. Good wing-play, but in the box they look weak and short of man power."
- Who is the one Oldham player to watch for Saturday’s game?
"Zak Dearnley. The young lad comes from a background including the Manchester United academy. Carries a little bit of pace, but an insightful touch and forward-thinking. Latics fans enjoyed his loan spell last season and are happy to have him back at Boundary Park this season."
- Finally, what is your Score Prediction?
"If Latics can click up front then I’ll back them to win this one – 2-1."
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