Town boss Joe Royle has spoken of his sorrow at the current financial state of former club Oldham Athletic. The Second Division side, with whom Royle made his managerial name, are on the verge of going out of business.

The Town boss said: "It is no-one's fault but I find the whole thing very sad.

"People around the club have known for some time that things were bad, but now it seems to have reached dire straits.

"I desperately hope someone comes in and moves them forward. It is obvious Chris Moore has tried his very best and put a lot of money into the club, but he seems to have reached the end of the road and needs some help.

"The people I feel desperately sorry for are the supporters, who love their club and follow it every bit as avidly as those at City and United. Oldham Athletic Football Club is an important and large part of the town's social fabric.

"I have two sons who still live in the Oldham area, and they have conveyed the depth of feeling about the place at the moment. The great thing is that Oldham people are born survivors and fighters, and if they can find a way out of this dreadful mess then I know they will do so.

"If they were to go out of business it would be terrible. You would have to go a long way to find a friendlier, more homely, family-orientated club than Oldham.

"I have remained friends with people who work there and have done so all of their lives - and not for the money they have been paid. It is a terrible and worrying time for them, and I wish them all the luck in the world.

"The ironic thing is that manager Iain Dowie has done a great job on the pitch since he took over, and they came close to winning promotion to the First Division.

"With the talent they have there, they would undoubtedly start amongst the favourites in August. Perhaps that will inspire someone to take the chance and pump in some cash. I hope so."

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