Roughyeds in double swoop

DANNY WHITMORE and Matty Ashe are the latest confirmed signings for Oldham ahead of the start of pre-season training tonight.

Whitmore, a former Waterhead amateur, is a half-back or hooker who has joined the Roughyeds from Super League side Salford City Reds following the restructuring of the academy level ranks in the top flight.

Having found himself too old to take part in the new under-20s competition, Whitmore now has the chance to prove himself in the professional game.

“He wanted to play for his home-town club and we are delighted to have him on board,” said Roughyeds chairman Chris Hamilton.

“This is a good opportunity for Danny and now it is up to him to take it.”

Kiwi half-back, hooker or centre Ashe has already performed well for Oldham, scoring four tries in his six appearances last season and was keen to extend his career at the club.

“Matty had a big impact here while on loan from Swinton,” Hamilton added.

“He thoroughly enjoyed his time with us and wanted to stay. His versatility will be useful to us.”

Whitmore and Ashe join Martin Roden as senior members of coach Tony Benson’s squad, who convene for the first time this evening.

The 2010 season beings with a pair of friendlies away at Hornets RL in the Law Cup on Sunday, January 3, and Batley on Sunday, January 17, before the start of the Co-operative Championship One season at the end of that month.

FORMER Oldham player-coach Mike Ford has emerged as the bookies’ favourite to take on the full-time role as coach of the England RL team.

Ford is currently employed by the RFU as the national team’s defence coach.