Oldham Athletic manager Lee Johnson says there are no easy games in League One and believes Saturday’s visit from Bradford City will be no exception.
Oldham are League One’s in-form side, having gone unbeaten in 12 games in all competitions and Johnson and his team’s hard work and respect for their opponents have been vital in continuing this run.
Bradford have had a more modest season, meanwhile, winning five, drawing four, and losing five in the league – stereotypical form for a mid-table side – but it’s a stat which makes them dangerous in Johnson’s eyes.
“We are still on this path of being the best we can and by no means have we cracked it,” Johnson said.
“There are no easy games coming up and if we are not at our maximum, we will get beat. We need to continue on this run and mainly we want to try and get wins.
“Bradford are a strong side. They are a big club for the division with a good fan base so I hope there is a big crowd in on Saturday. They have some good players and have recruited well over the summer and have a consistent manager.
“They tick all the boxes for being a consistent League One club and that is who we want to be pitting out wits against and make sure we continue our desire to play and be attacking.”
The Latics’ strike force were rampant against Coventry City on Tuesday night, putting four past the hapless Citizens – their best performance of the season.
Summer signing Dominic Poleon is yet to get off the mark this season, but feels with his own hard work, the unity of the team and the attitude of his manager, that will soon change.
“Sometimes in games you need that whole togetherness of the team, and when it’s not going well, it is that which spurs you on to see out a 0-0 or see out a 1-0 victory,” said Poleon.
“The team and the staff have been welcoming to me and I’m enjoying it. I think with the team we have got, we are creating chances. Sometimes you need a bit of luck in front of goal but the goals will come and I’m working hard on the training pitch.
“The manager gives you the chance to express yourself and play with freedom.
“He makes sure we know our jobs. You can have some managers that are uptight but here it’s nice and relaxed and the gaffer gets the best out of his boys.”
Main image courtesy of Official OAFC via YouTube, with thanks.
