Richie Wellens is the new Oldham Athletic manager

Oldham Athletic

Having impressed during his interim period with four wins and one draw against tough opposition, Richie Wellens has been appointed Latics new manager.

Wellens has put pen to paper on a two-year deal.

Chairman Simon Corney said: “What started out to be a very hard decision ended up being an easy one.

“Richie has shown great character and performed way beyond our expectations, bringing an upturn in fortune and results for the club.

“To a man, each and every player has approached me to express their hope and desire for Richie to continue as manager and that simply cannot be ignored.

“Perhaps most telling was my conversation with Paul Scholes a few weeks ago who told me that to look any further than Richie would be crazy.

“Paul is someone that I often turn to for advice regarding Oldham Athletic matters and he was unequivocal in his praise for Richie adding that he, as he always is, would be willing to offer him any help or advice if asked.

“Richie has already demonstrated great tactical awareness during games and I think I speak for all the fans when I say not only have the results been impressive but also the manner in which he has achieved them.

“Personally, I have not witnessed football as exciting as this for a long time at SportsDirect.com Park.

“We look forward to seeing our fans at all our games and hope that we continue to play in a positive manner and move up the table.”

Wellens added: “I am very proud and delighted to be announced as the new manager of Oldham Athletic.

“I wanted the job and worked tirelessly to get it. I have done everything I possibly could but we are in a good place and I am going to try and take the club forward now.

“I do not want the players to rest on any laurels now but they have got me the job.

“I have worked tirelessly and tried to do my very best in my preparation and work rate I have put in, which has helped me get the job as well, but the players’ performances have got me the job.

“I have come to this ground for so many years, probably 30 years or so. For too long, this club has been fighting at the wrong end of the table, so can we get up there and fight at the top end of the table.

“I also can’t thank the fans enough and hopefully I can bring them some good times.”