Luke Hannant Looking to Build on Oldham Athletic Momentum
Oldham Athletic midfielder Luke Hannant has expressed his determination to carry forward the momentum from last season’s promotion-winning campaign as the Latics prepare for life back in the Football League.
Following their dramatic National League play-off final victory at Wembley on June 1, Oldham are undergoing something of a transformation this summer. Hannant, signed during a busy recruitment window, is one of 10 new arrivals, although four of those – Tom Pett, Jake Leake, Kane Drummond and Kai Payne – are familiar faces returning from loan or short-term spells.
Despite the turnover in personnel, Hannant believes there is a strong platform to build on as Micky Mellon’s side gear up for their League Two return.
“There’s a really good buzz around the place,” said Hannant. “You can still feel the lift from getting promoted, and we all want to keep that going. The lads who were here last season have spoken about what the club’s been through and how important it is to push on now. That energy’s rubbing off on everyone.”
The midfielder, who featured in the recent friendly against Bradford City, is relishing the opportunity to be part of Oldham’s new chapter. While promotion euphoria has faded slightly, the focus now is on creating a competitive and cohesive unit ready to tackle the demands of League Two.
“It’s not easy coming into a squad that’s already achieved something big, but everyone’s made it really easy to settle in,” Hannant added. “The manager has made it clear that this is a fresh start for the group. Yes, last season was brilliant, but now it’s about what we do next.”
That clarity has been necessary. Of the squad that featured in the play-off final, eight have now departed – including five who started under the Wembley arch. It’s a significant shift that has required a fast bedding-in period for Hannant and the rest of the new arrivals.
“Of course it’s sad when a core of successful players move on, but that’s football,” Hannant said. “Sometimes change is necessary. There’s still a solid spine to the team, and it’s about blending the old and new to create a strong group identity.”
Head coach Micky Mellon has stressed the importance of keeping standards high and refusing to rest on the laurels of last season. Hannant’s versatility and Football League experience – with spells at the likes of Cambridge United and Colchester – will likely prove valuable assets.
Pre-season has been physically demanding, with an emphasis on tactical shape and unity. The test against Bradford City, despite ending in defeat, offered glimpses of the intensity and structure Mellon is hoping to bring to the campaign.
“There were positives to take from that game,” Hannant said. “It’s about learning and making sure we’re where we need to be for that opening match. I think we’re on the right path.”
As Oldham prepare to kick off their League Two season, Hannant is clear on the goal – to ensure the club’s Football League return is not short-lived.
“Oldham’s a massive club,” he said. “The aim has to be building something sustainable, not just surviving but pushing further. The fans deserve that. They’ve stuck with this team through thick and thin. We want to give them something to be proud of again.”
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