Deadline Double

Last updated : 01 February 2019 By Dave Moore

The Latics fans have been crying out for a striker to sign after losing favourite Sam Surridge after his loan period expired. Their prayers have been answered as the club made a double signing of strikers on deadline day.

Zak Dearnley (19) travels the short distance from Old Trafford where the youngster has been playing for the Manchester United U23 squad. He made the bench once in the final game of the 2016/17 season against Crystal Palace. Some fans consider that the United link is an indicator that Paul Scholes may have influenced the move and further fuels the fire that a managerial announcement is imminent, but this is speculation.

The other striker is Oladapo Afolayan (21) joins from West Ham United. Afolayan has also been in the Premier League U23 side for the Hammers. He began his career at Solihull Moors before where he scored 15 goals in 44 appearances.

Both players will remain until the end of the season.