Former Town boss Joe Royle has decided he will not continue as manager of Oldham next season. The veteran manager took over at Boundary Park nine weeks ago but has decided not to take the job long-term.

Royle, who signed Shane Supple on loan from the Blues and ex-Town midfielder Ian Westlake on a similar basis from Cheltenham, says he has been happy back with the Latics but only ever saw it as a temporary arrangement: ”I always said that I was here only to the end of the season, but I have enjoyed working with all the directors and I have offered to help the club when the need arises.

"It is still the club I knew 15 years ago and I retain a lot of affection for the people here, the club and the fans. That is why I was only too willing to help out over these past few weeks.”

Royle is still to win the first game of his second spell at Boundary Park and the Latics have no chance of reaching the League One play-offs.

Keeper Shane Supple returned to the Blues a fortnight ago with a knee injury which has put him out of action for the season.

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