Oldham Athletic manager Micky Mellon has reassured supporters about the club's long-term ambition following his son's permanent transfer to Stevenage. The striker Michael Mellon, who impressed on loan at Boundary Park last season, signed a three-year contract with the League One side last week, a move his father confirmed was beyond Oldham's current financial reach.
Speaking to The Oldham Times this week, Mellon senior stressed that the club is on a growth trajectory. "As I've said before, he (Michael) was out of reach but I don't want the supporters to think that players like that won't come back into our reach again as we grow as a football club," the Latics boss said. He pointed to the need for patience after a difficult period, but insisted the club's day will come to compete for that calibre of player.
Why couldn't Oldham sign Michael Mellon?
The financial realities of the transfer market made a deal impossible. Michael Mellon was in the final year of his contract at parent club Burnley, who were looking to secure a fee for him. His performances for Oldham last term, where he scored 10 goals in 18 games before a hamstring injury, attracted significant interest from several League One clubs. Mellon had already taken a pay cut to play for his father at Boundary Park last season, and the combined cost of a transfer fee and wages proved too high for Oldham's current budget.
What is the club's current transfer strategy?
Oldham's focus is on sustainable growth, developing a squad capable of challenging in the National League and building back towards the Football League. The club's squad page shows a mix of experienced heads and younger players, a balance Mellon is working with. While they couldn't secure a marquee signing like Michael Mellon this summer, the manager's comments indicate a plan to gradually increase their spending power. The immediate goal is consolidation and improvement, using the current window to add players who fit the system and represent good value.
How did Michael Mellon's loan spell help his career?
His time at Boundary Park was a definitive success for the player's development. Mellon junior arrived with a point to prove and seized his opportunity, quickly becoming a key figure in the attack. "He created a profile for himself that a League One club - plenty of League One clubs wanted to come and take him, so that was credit to him coming here and attacking it," Micky Mellon added. The loan move provided the consistent first-team football he needed, showcasing his finishing ability and earning him a permanent move to a higher division. His father noted the player was "very grateful" for his time with the Latics.
What's next for Oldham Athletic?
The club now turns its attention to the ongoing season, where the aim is to build on the foundations laid last year. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on our fixtures page. The next test for Mellon's side is a home fixture against Rochdale on September 13th, a local derby that always carries extra significance. With the transfer window closed, the manager will be looking to get the best from his existing group as they target a positive run of results in the league.
