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."