Oldham hopeful of soccer ground share

Oldham remain optimistic that they can negotiate a deal to share Oldham Athletic AFC’s SportsDirect.com Park in 2016.

Roughyeds chairman Chris Hamilton has held meetings with his Athletic counterpart Simon Corney, following the news that the club’s current homeground, Whitebank, does not meet minimum standards for the Championship.

The club remain committed to staying within Oldham in 2016, and can understand the fans’ frustrations that a stadium has not been secured as yet.

“I share the frustrations of our fans,” said Hamilton.

“The club would love to be announcing admission and season-ticket prices for next season, and getting them on sale, but that’s obviously not possible until we know where we are playing.

“I hope supporters can appreciate that we are not now in direct control of things. There are issues that Simon (Corney) has to ensure are covered before any kind of formal agreement can be settled.

“Among other things, there are potential issues with the wear and tear on the pitch during the winter months.

“We are continuing to move forward though and we remain hopeful.”