James Norwood Joins Fleetwood Town After Oldham Athletic Exit

James Norwood Joins Fleetwood Town After Oldham Athletic Exit

 

James Norwood has completed a move to Fleetwood Town, signing for Oldham Athletic’s League Two rivals following his exit from Boundary Park this summer.

 

The experienced striker, who played a pivotal role in Oldham’s National League play-off triumph at Wembley just weeks ago, now embarks on a new chapter with the Cod Army ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

 

Norwood, 34, became a fan favourite at Oldham after joining last season, scoring crucial goals that helped Latics secure promotion back to the EFL. His tenacity, leadership, and knack for scoring in key moments proved invaluable, particularly during the tense promotion run-in.

 

However, with his contract at Oldham expiring, Norwood opted for a fresh challenge at Fleetwood. The move sees him link up with manager Charlie Adam, who has been busy reshaping the squad following Fleetwood’s own relegation to League Two in May.

 

Speaking after sealing the switch, Norwood expressed his gratitude to Oldham supporters but admitted the lure of a new project with Fleetwood proved too strong to turn down.

 

“I’ve loved every minute at Oldham,” said Norwood. “Winning promotion at Wembley was a special moment in my career. The fans, my teammates, and the staff have been brilliant with me. But I’m excited for this new opportunity with Fleetwood Town — it’s a fresh challenge and I’m hungry to help get this club back up the leagues.”

 

Fleetwood boss Adam hailed Norwood’s arrival as a key piece in his summer rebuild.

 

“James brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record at this level, and a winning mentality,” said Adam. “We know what he can do on the pitch — he’s a natural goalscorer and a leader in the dressing room. We’re delighted to have him on board.”

 

Norwood becomes Fleetwood’s sixth signing of the summer, joining a squad that is expected to challenge for promotion after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign that ended in relegation from League One.

 

For Oldham, Norwood’s departure leaves a gap up front, though manager Micky Mellon is understood to be targeting new attacking options before the season kicks off. Despite the disappointment of losing one of last season’s heroes, Mellon wished Norwood well and thanked him for his contribution.

 

“James has been outstanding for us,” said Mellon. “He came in, gave everything, and played a massive part in getting us back to the Football League. We wish him all the best at Fleetwood.”

 

Norwood’s move means Oldham and Fleetwood will now be direct rivals in League Two — setting up a potentially fiery clash when the sides meet this season.

 

For now, Norwood’s focus is firmly on helping the Cod Army bounce straight back, while Oldham prepare for life in League Two without their talismanic frontman.

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