Oldham Athletic will begin the season without last season’s top scorer, James Norwood, and striker Joe Garner, as confirmed by manager Micky Mellon.
The duo has been sidelined for almost the entire pre-season due to injuries. Norwood suffered a calf muscle tear on the first day back, while Garner underwent shoulder surgery.
Although The Oldham Times reported last month that both players might miss the season opener against Braintree Town on Saturday (kick-off 3pm), Mellon had initially avoided setting a return timeline. With the 2024/25 season starting soon, the Scot has now acknowledged that neither player will be fit to participate this weekend.
“Norwood, no chance for a couple of weeks at least,” Mellon said, adding: “Joe Garner, no chance for a couple of weeks.”
This situation has prompted Mellon to search for additional support, leading to discussions with former Latics striker Matt Smith. However, the 35-year-old chose not to return to Boundary Park, opting instead to focus on a business venture outside football.
“It’s going to be a really long season, and we need to add more players to the squad to keep things moving, especially in the National League with all the cups and travel involved. A strong squad is essential,” Mellon remarked.
He noted that while pre-season games against three League One teams have been promising, the absence of Norwood and Garner has been felt.
Latics will also be without summer signing Josh Kay for the Braintree match, as the midfielder recovers from a hamstring injury that kept him out of the last three friendlies.
“I think we’re looking at a week to 10 days for his return,” Mellon said. “He’s a strong, powerful player who we need back in the group, whether on the bench or starting, as he can contribute significantly to our performance.”
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