Royle told Manchester Evening News Sport, "It would be great if John did get on board. We worked well together in our other life at City." Wardle said, "It was a fantastic appointment getting Joe back, totally inspired. He will need a big coat at Ice Station Zebra which he calls Boundary Park ... and knows where to come for one. As for me, getting involved again we will just have to wait and see. If anyone can turn around Oldham's fortunes and get the club back to the good old days it is Joe. There is no one better at getting a promotion run on.''
Alan Hardy added, "John Wardle, who is a good friend of the club, has great experience in football and good contacts throughout the game."