Big-spending Oldham snap up two more highly-rated youngsters

Oldham RL managing director Mike Ford

Oldham Rugby League Club, who are rapidly becoming the talk of the town, have signed two more young players - half-back Kieran Tyrer (21) from Wigan Warriors and utility back Mackenzie Turner (20) from Leeds Rhinos.

Now fronted by new chairman Bill Quinn and four more new directors, including managing director Mike Ford, the Roughyeds have now signed 24 new players and released 13 as well as unveiling former St Helens and Great Britain star Sean Long as head coach.

“It’s an exciting time for all our fans,” said Ford (57), himself a former Oldham star who has pledged to make his home town a “rugby league town” again.

He added: “Of all the players we’ll have next year, only Emmerson Whittel, Kian Morgan and Jordan Paga were here when the new board took over and that’s a massive turn-around.

"It’s remarkable, in fact. “

The board has changed the club’s name to Oldham RLFC 1876 Ltd to reflect its formation 147 years ago.

Said Ford: “The club has a fantastic history. We are proud of that.

"It must never be forgotten.”

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