ORGANISERS hope this weekend’s Fans v Legends game will serve as a reminder of the good times at Oldham Athletic, and ‘reignite lost passion’ for the club amid years of turmoil on and off the field.

Places in the Fans XI have been auctioned off in an effort to raise money for the 1895 Fund, and contribute to the £6million target set in order to make an offer to buy Boundary Park from landlord Simon Blitz.

The highest bidders, as well as those who were successful in the raffle for a place on the substitutes’ bench, will come up against Latics legends including David Eyres, Andy Ritchie, Clyde Wijnhard and Richie Wellens at Avro FC on Sunday, kick-off 3pm, while it has been announced today that former Oldham captain David Wheater will manage the fans' team.

A statement from independent fans’ group Push The Boundary, who have helped to organise the event in conjunction with the Oldham Athletic Supporters’ Foundation, said: “We can’t wait to see you turning out in your droves to watch, meet and share memories with some of the players that have represented us over the last 20 years or so.

“When we think of David Eyres, even to this day we think of that amazing last minute free kick at Stockport County to secure a 2-1 win, or the winner at Derby County in the league cup to send travelling fans into rapture.

“The goal that Wayne Andrews scored after eight seconds at Wigan, or the the four goals scored by big Clyde against Mansfield. These memories stay with us, forever.

“We want Sunday to be a massive celebration of all that and we hope it reignites a passion that’s been lost to supporters over the last few years, and that you can tell your friends and your children about why you love this club so much. Perhaps you’ll even be able to see some old friends down at Avro and share some stories of the past.

“The last four years have been horrific, but let’s put that aside for a day and enjoy being Oldham Athletic fans and enjoy what we’ve collectively built in the way of a ‘rebel alliance’.”

PTB added that it was a good example of football bringing the community together, and urged those attending to make it a positive experience for Avro as well as Latics fans.

“We’d like to place on record our thanks to each and every person/organisation that has stepped forward to make a bid, to sponsor, to offer something for the auctions/raffle, to donate food and drink, and everything in between,” the statement continued.

“Without your contributions, the event wouldn’t be what it is. But that’s what makes this club what it is.

“We’d also like to pay a special mention to Avro, to chairman Rob Fuller as well as Lynsey Mellor, Paul Armstrong and Charlie O’Brien for assisting with all our queries and requests. Without them, the day couldn’t go ahead but they do truly see the value in helping us achieve our goal.

“This is what happens when communities come together. So please put money behind their bar, please try the amazing food at Macie’s and let’s ensure that they have a great day as well.”

The event will also involve, at 12 noon, a match between Brookvale United Ladies Team and Mancunian Unity Ladies Team, who are coached by PTB’s Dan Taylor and were treble winners last season.

PTB continued: “The emergence and progression of the women’s game is something we hugely support and it will be great to have the opportunity to promote the #HerGameToo movement.”

Entry costs £5 for adults and £1 for children and is pay on the day. Tickets can also be purchased in advance online through https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/oafc-fans-xi-vs-latics-xi-tickets-350656040657

As well as the football there will be bouncy castles and refreshments, including a sweet stall, which are all cash only.