Goalkeeper Mark Crossley's contract is due for renewal in summer and he is realistic enough to realise that his first team days may be numbered. However, the 39 year old hopes to take on a new role as goalkeeping coach with the option of making the odd appearance in the senior squad when needed. Crossley said, "The idea which has been mentioned is for me to carry on coaching the keepers, and to save money. I can be the back-up to Greg Fleming or whoever is in goal. I could be someone with experience who can play the odd game if needed and by doing the two jobs I can save the club money. It wasn't a major career-threatening problem and I have been assured by the surgeon and the physios that there is no reason why I cannot carry on playing. I am hoping to be back for the end of the season and to be available if we get into the play-offs."
"Before the back problem, I was delighted with my fitness and in one-and-a-half seasons with Oldham I had missed only six games through injury. I was pleased, indeed surprised, to have played so many games (68 matches) as I had not been expecting it. If I can get back without any niggles, I would love to be able to carry on until someone tells me they don't want me. I will also know when the time is right to call it a day as my body will tell me. I love working with John Sheridan, who is a great young manager, and I would like to stay with him as a coach in the future."