JOHN Sheridan will take charge of his last game for Oldham Athletic on Saturday, before leaving the club by mutual consent.

The Latics legend came out of retirement to return January, in an ultimately unsuccessful attempt to preserve the club's Football League status after two winless months without a manager following the departure of Keith Curle in November 2021.

Upon relegation, Sheridan then vowed to stay to help lead the fight back from the National League, and new chairman Frank Rothwell gave the 57-year-old his backing after the Rothwell family completed their takeover of the club in July.

But Latics have averaged just one point per game from their opening eight matches, to sit 16th in the table.

And on the back of Tuesday night's disappointing 3-0 defeat at Woking both parties have agreed it is time for change.

However, in recognition of Sheridan's loyal service as both player and manager - with six spells at the helm in total - tomorrow's visit of Eastleigh will be the former Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday and Republic of Ireland midfielder's last game at the Boundary Park helm.

A statement from the club read: "Oldham Athletic can confirm that, following discussions with manager and club legend John Sheridan, it has today been agreed that the time is right for him to step aside.

"Having had the chance to assess where the club is at and what changes are required, both the Board and John feel that someone else is needed to take on the major challenge of restoring the club’s fortunes on the field.

"To allow him the send-off he deserves and give fans the opportunity to show their appreciation, John has agreed to take charge for one last time at our home match with Eastleigh on Saturday.

"We would place on record our thanks to John for his efforts. He came out of retirement in January because he felt a sense of duty to try and keep the club in the EFL.

"However, despite his best efforts and the amazing backing of our fans, that attempt was ultimately unsuccessful. Following relegation - and with the club for sale amid uncertain times - John felt he could not turn his back and so agreed to remain in charge.

"The completion of the Rothwell family takeover means that the club’s future has now been secured and with results so far not what everyone had been hoping for, John and the Club now feel that the time is right for both he and Latics to move on as we enter a new era.

"It goes without saying that John leaves on very good terms and with nothing but the thanks and utmost respect from the Board and the club.

"Shez will forever be an OAFC legend and there will be discussions over a permanent tribute to his service at Boundary Park.

"A new manager will be appointed in due course."

David Unsworth, who worked with Latics director and former manager Joe Royle at Everton, left his role as the Toffees' Academy boss to pursue managerial opportunities and could be a candidate.

Keith Hill and Phil Brown are also out of work after leaving Scunthorpe and Barrow respectively, while former Oldham player and manager Dean Holden is also looking to get back into management.