After a strong spell in September, where the Latics went 5 games undefeated, Micky Mellon’s men will have to regroup after back-to-back defeats, followed by a disappointing draw. But now, they will have to do so without team Captain Tom Conlon, writes Lanz Sievert.
The midfielder was ruled out for the remainder of the season after scans confirmed he had suffered cruciate knee ligament damage, sustained during the Vertu Trophy defeat at Rotherham United. The injury typically demands a nine-month recovery period.
“That’s Tom’s season over, which is a huge blow for him and for us because he’s such a big influence on us,” confirmed manager Mellon. “He’s not just our captain on the pitch, he’s a really big influence in and around the dressing room and among the lads. He will be a big loss.”
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The loss of Conlon strikes at precisely the wrong moment. The 29-year-old’s leadership, experience, and midfield creativity had been instrumental in Oldham’s early-season success. His ability to dictate tempo and control matches made him indispensable to Mellon’s system, and his absence has already proven costly.
Mellon was visibly emotional discussing the injury, showing the depth of his concern for both the player and the club.
Finding a suitable replacement will prove challenging. Conlon’s all-round qualities, his work rate, technical ability, and experience, are difficult to replicate, and whoever steps into his position will have enormous shoes to fill at a time when confidence is fragile.
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Defender Donervon Daniels is also sidelined with a knee issue and unlikely to feature for a couple of weeks. Oldham are stretched thin in key areas just when they desperately need stability.
Tom Pett captained the side during Conlon’s absence and will more likely continue to do so, with veterans like Joe Quigley and Reagan Ogle also suitable options for Mellon.
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