Middlehurst swoop

SCOTT NAYLOR . . . “great addition to the squad.”

OLDHAM have signing former Rochdale and North Wales Crusaders back-row man Gary Middlehurst.

Widely regarded as one of the best forwards in the Kingstone Press divisions, Middlehurst (32) arrived back in the UK only nine days ago after a round-the-world trip with his wife Kelly.

Several clubs expressed early interest but Oldham prevailed - to the delight of chairman Chris Hamilton and coach Scott Naylor.

“He’s signed a contract to November 30,” said Hamilton, adding: “A few clubs were after him and we worked hard to get his signature. We’re confident he will make a big contribution this season.”

After starting his career at Widnes, he spent the last three seasons at North Wales after a two-year stint at Rochdale.

The capture can be regarded as a statement of intent by Roughyeds, determined to consolidate their position in their first season in the Championship.

Said head coach Naylor: “Whenever we’ve played Crusaders in the past three years, Gary has been one of their top men. He works hard, plays the game tough — that’s how I like it — and he never takes a backward step. That is very important in the Championship.

“He will be a great addition to the squad.”

Middlehurst joins Oldham at training tonight, but expects to be working on his fitness for a couple of weeks before his first game.

He added: “I’m naturally fit, so it won’t take me long. I’m looking forward to a new challenge, a new club and a new set of lads.”