Highlights from Oldham Athletic’s Fans’ Forum
Oldham Athletic supporters were given a rare and open insight into the inner workings of the club during a candid fans’ forum held at Boundary Park just before the club’s play-off campaign. The well-attended event featured chief executive Darren Royle, manager Micky Mellon, and sporting director Steve Thompson, who answered a wide range of questions from the fanbase, covering topics from tactical approach and squad planning to stadium improvements and long-term ambitions.
Darren Royle opened the evening by thanking fans for their unwavering support throughout the National League season and especially for their vocal backing during crucial home games. “The atmosphere you’ve created at Boundary Park this year has been immense,” he said. “It’s helped push the team forward during tight moments.” Royle also acknowledged the progress being made off the pitch, noting that financial stability and community engagement remain high on the club’s agenda.
Manager Micky Mellon took centre stage during the discussion about tactics and team performance. He reflected on the ups and downs of the season and addressed some of the criticism around playing style. “We’re always looking to play progressive football, but in this league, sometimes you have to grind results,” Mellon explained. “The goal has always been promotion and building a team that can fight consistently at the top end of the table.” He reassured fans that the squad was being shaped with long-term sustainability in mind, and hinted that several exciting transfer targets were already in advanced discussions.
One of the standout moments came when Steve Thompson fielded questions about recruitment and the summer transfer window. “We’ve got a clear profile of the type of player we want — hungry, experienced, and committed to the journey this club is on,” Thompson said. He added that the club had already identified key positions needing reinforcement and were keen to complete early business to give Mellon a full pre-season with the squad. A few fans pushed for names, but Thompson remained tight-lipped, citing confidentiality.
Stadium upgrades were another hot topic, with Royle confirming that improvements to the Main Stand’s facilities were already underway. He also revealed that plans were in place for further enhancements across Boundary Park, including better matchday amenities and hospitality options. “We want the whole experience of coming to a Latics game to be something fans can look forward to — not just the 90 minutes,” he said.
The forum concluded with a Q\&A where fans brought up subjects ranging from youth development to kit designs. There was a positive and respectful tone throughout, with fans expressing cautious optimism about the club’s direction. “We know mistakes have been made in the past,” Royle said, “but we’re learning, we’re building, and with your support, we believe Oldham can rise again.”
With promotion hopes still alive, the forum served as both a reflective and forward-looking occasion — a chance for club and community to connect in a shared vision of progress and pride.
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