Ford cleared to face Skolars

OLDHAM again has the services of dual-registered Jon Ford for Sunday afternoon’s clash with London Skolars at Whitebank.

The 20-year-old Salford centre made his first Oldham appearance this year in the 31-30 home win against York and followed that with two tries in last week's 30-22 victory at Gloucester.

Coach Scott Naylor has confirmed Ford is again available this weekend as Roughyeds strive to extend their unbeaten record at Whitebank and go level with current leaders York, who have no game.

With the season not yet halfway over, Naylor's men are the only team in the division unbeaten at home.

Naylor won’t drop hints about his team selection for the London game other than to reaffirm he is leaning towards continuing his rotation policy to keep as many players as possible match-fit.

Currently out injured are Adam Files (knee), Liam Thompson (jaw and eye socket) and Edwin Okanga-Ajwang, who has an ankle problem.

The 19-year-old Salford centre has made three Oldham appearances on dual registration, but he is now back at the Red Devils temporarily while the Super League club’s medical staff work on getting him ready to play again.

Said Naylor: “It makes sense for one club, rather than two, to help him over his injury and to get him out on the field again, but as soon as he’s fit he will be coming back to us.”

Young prop Paddy Mooney, who has been out for several weeks with a back injury, will have a late check in the hope that he can return to action tomorrow for the under-20s against Sheffield Eagles Academy at Whitebank (kick-off 2.30pm).