Thanks: Neal Eardley
It had to be Neal first. Last season he was sensational and this time around he’s proving just as pivotal. Who wasn’t delighted to see him back in the side against Mansfield? Seriously, James Wilson is a lovely lad and a good player, but Neal Eardley fits our style like an Adidas Gazelle size 10.5 fits my feet.
Our number 23 was a trainee at Boundary Park, breaking through in the third tier and serving them with distinction. He was part of the Oldham side to beat Everton at Goodison in the FA Cup and assumed the role of captain later on during his tenure.
In total he started 124 times for them after coming through the ranks, before earning a move to Blackpool where he played in the Premier League. He represented Wales too, but as we know suffered an injury set back after a move to Birmingham.
Now he’s settled in at right back for us, arguably the best we’ve had in living memory. He’s confident, calm and organised and when he plays, we’re always that little bit better. Cheers Oldham.