Stephens excited at prospect

Last updated : 02 July 2008 By The Chairman

Midfielder Dale Stephens has now completed his move from Bury to Athletic and is now officially a Latics player. Athletic had to wait as his contract did not run out until 1st. July. The initial deal is for two years. Stephens had been on loan at Droylsden last season but his display against Southampton in the FA Cup alerted several clubs who started to show interest.

Stephens is excited at the prospect of playing for Athletic and told the official Latics website, "I first heard of Oldham's interest towards the end of my Bury contract. I read in the papers they tried signing me in January but I knew nothing of that. I'm here now and I want to enjoy it. I'm very grateful to Bury for what they've done for me, but coming here was an opportunity I couldn't afford to miss. I got some great experience at Bury and playing against teams like Southampton in the FA Cup has given me some fantastic memories."

"My dad watched John Sheridan at Bolton and to be honest he was a big factor in my decision to join. Hopefully I can learn a thing or two from him and start playing more games. The lads and the coaching staff have been great with me so far even though I've only been here for three days. Training's been good and I'm looking forward to the season. I'd describe myself as a box-to-box midfielder. I wouldn't say I like sitting but I can do that, although I like to get forward."

"I know it's going to be tough getting in the team, but I'm here to play and am not going to sit back and watch other people play in my position. I'll be putting pressure on them as they will on me. I want to play as many games as possible and I feel I can do that at Oldham. There's some decent teams in this division and it'll be tough, but I'm looking forward to the challenge."