Browse Sections

• Education
• Special reports

Sheridan talks with trio

17/ 4/2008

LATICS boss John Sheridan has spelled out his desire to keep Mark Crossley, Andy Liddell and Gary McDonald at Boundary Park.

A day after handing a three-year deal to teenager Lewis Alessandra, Sheridan revealed talks are ongoing with the trio, all of whom are out of contract in the summer.

Although enquiries have been made about possible transfer targets, the Oldham boss wants all three players to renew their deals - as much for their off-field work if anything.

He said: “I've had a chat with them and told them I want to keep them; hopefully we can sort something out. The experienced players are a massive part of my squad because they help the young players and improve them.

“When he was injured, Lidds remained positive in what he said and that's what I want from my experienced players. It can't be my voice they hear all the time, it's important players help each other.

“I want four or five players in different areas, I know where we need to strengthen. I've enquired about one or two because next season is a big season for us.”

Despite niggling injuries during the season, Crossley has managed 43 appearances and been one of the few on-field leaders; a consequence of perhaps having to field so many youngsters.

McDonald has bounced back from being of favour at the start of the season to score five times in 40 games, the most notable goal being the winner at Everton in the third round of the FA Cup.

As for Liddell, an Achilles injury meant he was forced to miss almost six months of the campaign before coming on for Jason Jarrett in the 3-0 loss at Swindon Town a fortnight ago.

His absence, along with the likes of Lee Hughes, Craig Davies and Sean Gregan has at least seen some of the club's youngsters make the step up and be rewarded for their displays.

Alessandra is the latest to sign a new deal, one that Sheridan believed is richly deserved, saying: “He's a lad with potential, likewise Deane Smalley who we've offered a new contract. They're players who have come in and played lots of football but it's up to them to stick around and push for first-team football.”