LATICS' legendary former manager Joe Royle has put his faith in John Sheridan to get the club back up, after returning to the club as part of the takeover.

Royle, who has been named as a director just over 40 years after his appointment as Oldham boss, says the immediate aim for the club is to "get out of this division".

And he is backing Sheridan to achieve it.

"We've got to get out of this division as soon as possible, and it's a hard division," said Royle.

"We can do it. John knows his stuff, he knows what he wants, which is important."

Hundreds of fans gathered outside Boundary Park last night to welcome a new chairman, and new era, and Royle added: "The support here tonight it tells you that something has been wrong here for a while and now we've got to get it right.

"My son (Darren) has been involved in all the takeover talks. I've only met him (Frank) tonight but I feel like I've known him a long time."

A club statement, issued at 5pm last night, read: "Following the conclusion of negotiations with Abdallah Lemsagam and Simon Blitz, the sale of Oldham Athletic AFC can now be confirmed.

"We are also at an advanced stage to purchase Boundary Park stadium, hopefully within the course of the next week.

"Headed by our by our new chairman, Frank Rothwell, the Oldham-based owner and founder of Manchester Cabins which has long-standing local ties, the deal will ensure that the club and stadium will be consolidated under one ownership.

"This is a significant and hugely exciting development in the proud history of Oldham Athletic and ensures the club can now approach the new season and beyond with a genuine sense of anticipation.

"The necessary Owners and Directors Test has been passed and the sale will be ratified by the relevant football authorities.

"The Rothwell family has this afternoon met with representatives from supporter groups and look forward to engaging further with fans to share their vision for the future.

"The Rothwell family would like to place on record their thanks to their financial due diligence advisors RSM and legal due diligence advisors from Knights PLC.

"The club and the Rothwell family would like to recognise the efforts of both of the selling parties in their co-operation throughout the process, and also thank supporters, community and Council and the other parties involved in the transactions for their patience and assistance."