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Rising Latics attempt to clip wings of high-flying Bantams

By Harry Laughton

A much rejuvenated Oldham side travel to promotion hopefuls Bradford City.

After picking up just four points in the opening nine games, John Sheridan saw his Latics reign cut short, a decision that may ultimately have saved their season

Despite having Paul Scholes linked with the vacant managerial position, Richie Wellens has seen himself in the spotlight with a 100 per cent win record.

Since taking over, caretaker manager Wellens has guided Oldham to more than triple their total points haul from the first nine games. This was topped by a 1-0 victory over another team hopeful of promotion in Blackburn Rovers.

Bradford will themselves be looking to gain lost ground on Wigan and Shrewsbury after suffering a crushing 3-1 defeat away at struggling Bury last time out. The Bantams’ form has been somewhat hit and miss as highlighted by their 4-1 drubbing of MK Dons the week before. A pattern is beginning to emerge over the previous six games that sees them defeated after two wins on the bounce. This will be something Bradford will be looking to put a halt to and end Wellens’ honeymoon period.

Much of the focus may be on Bradford striker Charlie Wyke to help them battle out in the upper echelons of the divisions. After a slow start last campaign, he now boasts a scoring record that sees him net every other game. However with four goals in his last three appearances, he could be the difference.

Bradford will again be without tough tackling defender Tony McMahon after a hamstring injury has ruled him out for a month. This means on-loan Burnley youngster, Luke Hendrie is likely to make his home league debut in claret and amber. Oldham will also be without influential playmaker Ryan Flynn who is again ruled out with an Achilles injury.

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